With the Thanksgiving holiday behind us, many Alabama residents are on the search for the perfect Christmas tree. Whether residents chose to cut their own tree or purchase an already cut tree, in order to prevent being involved in an accident, it’s important to ensure a tree is properly and securely transported.
According to the American Automobile Association, more than 250,000 car accidents are caused each year by road debris. Alabama residents, who want to ensure their tree isn’t the cause of one of these crashes, would be wise to follow these safe tree transporting tips from the National Christmas Tree Association.
First, if an employee at a tree farm or lot suggests how to secure the tree-listen to them. These individuals help hundreds of people get their trees home safely and know what they are talking about. In order to make a tree less bulky and prone to catching the wind and becoming loose, it’s important to have the tree netted.
When securing a tree to the top of a vehicle or in the back of a truck, drivers should make sure they have an adequate amount of rope or bungee cord to secure the tree. Likewise, it’s important to make sure the tree does not obstruct a driver’s ability to see out of the rear window of their vehicle.
Lastly, while transporting a tree, it’s important to drive slowly. Not only will a reduced speed help decrease the likelihood that a tree will become loose or dislodged, going slowly will also help protect the tree from potential wind damage.
Source: Cars.com, “How to Transport Your Christmas Tree Safely,” Jennifer Geiger, Nov. 23, 2012
