'Tis the season for holiday fire safety

MESA, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Most people have had their Christmas trees up for at least a few weeks and some of the trees are getting brittle.

Take a look at the video -- the Mesa Fire Department set up a mock fire to show just how quickly a tree can go up in flames. In seconds, the backside of the was engulfed.

Check to see if you have equipment too close to the tree. If you have a portable space heater, broken wire or a light bulb that's missing in a set, you're at risk for having a large fire in your home that can spread to the adjoining furnishings and extends into the structure of your home.

Firefighters recommend checking your lighting equipment or if you haven't put it up, be sure to check it before you put it on the tree.

MFD's Ken Hall says make sure you have the appropriate size stand, because if you don't, it can be tipped over by a child, an animal, become close to a heat source and start a fire."

You'll also need to make sure the tree has plenty of water in the base.

"One of the recommended things for a Christmas tree is to cut off the two inches or so at the bottom of the tree and then water it immediately. Continue to add water to that tree daily to make sure it stays hydrated.