CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Christmas trees embody the magic and joy of the holidays, but they can also lead to tragedy if proper safety precautions aren't followed.

The Corpus Christi Fire Department held a Christmas tree-lighting safety demonstration to illustrate how quickly these trees can burn. Holiday lights or heat sources cause most Christmas tree fires when placed too close to the tree.

"Number one, whenever you have your Christmas tree, it's very important, as soon as you get that Christmas tree, make sure you get it in some water," said Assistant Chief Billy Belyeu of the Corpus Christi Fire Department.

Belyeu said tree owners need to check water levels and water the Christmas tree every day.

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"You also want to inspect your Christmas tree. If your needles are falling exce

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