Making a fresh-cut Christmas tree last

Dear readers: When you have decided on the perfect fresh holiday tree, be certain the seller makes a fresh cut straight across the base of the trunk, removing around an inch from the bottom, to ensure there’s enough water absorption. Be attentive in caring for your tree to make it last longer. Use these hints to do the job:

1. As quickly as you can, when you get your tree home put it in a tree stand or temporarily in a heavy bucket that’s large enough for the trunk and to hold at least one gallon of water. Check the water daily to be sure it covers the cut end of the trunk, because it needs the water!

2. Be aware that adding an aspirin or sugar to the water does not do anything for the tree.

3. Place the tree away from direct sunlight, fireplaces, wood stoves and other heat sources, because the heat will cause the tree to droop and could be a fire hazard. — Heloise

Holiday lights warning

Dear readers: When you are getting ready to put up all your holiday lights for the season — and that includes outside and inside — first examine them carefully.

Check and test all the holiday lights that you are hanging to be sure they are working. Also, closely examine the cords to be certain they are not frayed. You want them to be in good shape. Never run cords under rugs, and do not put cords where they could be walked on. This could create a house fire. — Heloise

Received fresh flowers

Dear Heloise: I just received a beautiful holiday arrangement of fresh flowers. How can I make them last longer? — Judith in Nevada

Dear Judith:

Take these steps to preserve those flowers: Change the water every other day and cut off 1/4 inch of the stem. Do not put the arrangement in direct sunlight or near a heat source. Strip off the leaves that go below the water line. But let the leaves near the top remain. Also, be aware that it is only the freshly cut bottom of the stem (not the shaft) that absorbs the water. Enjoy them! — Heloise

Keeping pets safe

Dear Heloise: We have cats and dogs in our home, and I am worried about keeping them safe during all of the noisy and lively holiday events. What can I do to protect them? — Donna in Georgia

Dear Donna: The holidays are so tempting to our pets. Use these safety hints: Keep your pets away from the Christmas tree, because they might want to chew on glass ornaments, tinsel or icicles, which surely can be dangerous if swallowed. And never allow them to drink the water from the Christmas tree because it could contain fertilizer or bacteria, which would be harmful. Also take note that some holiday plants can be bad for your pets if they chew or eat them, that includes Christmas cacti, mistletoe and holly. Put these up high and away from your pet’s reach. Monitor pets closely during the holidays, and it might be a good idea to keep them away from big family gatherings. — Heloise