KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – If you have a fake Christmas tree, you can just fold it up again and put it in storage, but it’s a little more complicated for those who still have real trees in their living rooms.
As the tree dries, out it becomes more of a fire hazard. One sign is when the tree begins dropping needles.
The City of Kalamazoo is asking residents to clean all the decorations off, including the tinsel, and drop them off at the site of the old Michigan HHS office.
That spot is located at 322 East Stockbridge Avenue, and trees can be dropped off through January. The City runs old trees through chippers and uses them as mulch in local parks.
Battle Creek residents can just leave them out with the trash.
Residents who live elsewhere can check with local units to see if they have their own disposal plans.
Trees can also can be decorated with fruits, nuts and popcorn and turned into a backyard bird feeders and winter shelter. Some people also use them in fish ponds to provide shelter for smaller species.
In addition, the tress can be used for mulch in gardens or kindling in fire pits.
Further Reading –
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) offers tips regarding fire safety and old Christmas trees. A November blog post on the subject can be found at this link.
A fact sheet can be viewed here.
— Copy written by John McNeil, additional editing by Will Kriss —
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