When yelling "TIMBER" should not be required; anchoring your Christmas Tree



(EFynch.com; Baltimore, MD): With a majority of us now preparing to hang the old ornaments on the Christmas Tree, we must never forget the "lucky' few who get to do this job twice!

I'm talking about those unfortunate few who forget to anchor the tree and for some "usually comical reason" get to participate in the lovely task of counting broken Christmas Balls.

It actually makes perfect sense when you think about it. We cut a tree from the very roots which are designed to hold it down. We load it with fixins' and top it with a star to make it EXTRA top heavy (extra points for extravagant tree toppers, right?).

It's no wonder that each year Christmas Trees are responsible for killing countless keepsake ornaments that would otherwise survive entire decades of summer storage.

*On a serious note- A falling tree can be dangerous to your family and has caused injuries in the past. It also creates a fire risk if left unattended (like when you are out trying to pick a fight in a mall parking lot).

So- ANCHOR YOUR TREE. It's simple, quick, and cheap. Follow our advice below:

1. Find at least 2 anchor points (because 1 point just make a swing)
        - Fixed objects (door hings, window lock, furniture) can sometimes work, but a direct tie into the wall is better.
        - Locate each point on opposite sides of the tree (room corners are the best location)
        - Test the anchor point after, there should be no movement once set
        - On the tree, place the anchors slightly above middle (2/3rds from bottom)

2. Use a bulky tree stand
        - Keep plenty of water for ballast
        - Tighten bolts as much as possible.

3. Use a strong twine or wire
        - Fishing line is typically too weak.
        - Strong twine is okay, wire is better- test by pulling as hard as you can.
        - Make sure all lines are pulled tight.

4. When in doubt test
       - Test each line- they SHOULD NOT wiggle.
       - Wiggle the tree, it can pivot but you want to make sure it does not fall.
       - Don't forget to test any knots (like the one used to tie around the tree).




How To Anchor:

There are several types of proper ways to place an anchor in the wall. The two ways we recommend are as follows:

1. Find a stud and tie the anchor directly into the wall. Use a proper screw/ hook, etc.
2. Use a "Self Drilling Drywall Anchor".

More information on this coming soon! (including a video with instructions)


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