WALTON - The annual Walton Fire Department Christmas Tree, wreath and kissing ball sale, launched Saturday, Nov. 25 at the Walton Central School Bus Garage, Delaware Street, is part-fundraiser, part community service - a way to “give back” to a community that gives so much to the department. The department harvested approximately 500 trees from tree farms in Delhi, Afton and Bainbridge and will sell them Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., until Dec. 23 or until all trees are sold.
Trees range in price from $35 to $50.
Tree species range from balsam, Fraser and concolor fir to blue and Norway spruce, as well as white pine and other varieties. There is a tree to suit every preference.
Walton Fire Chief Frank Wood advises that a fresh-cut tree be watered every day to help retain its moisture, hold onto its needles and to reduce its flammability. It’s also important, Wood said, to be aware of where a tree is displayed not over a heating vent or near something hot - and that the tree is secure in its stand.
A dried-out Christmas tree, he said, can become fully engulfed in flames in 30 seconds. Always check for frayed wires on Christmas lights, Wood further cautioned. “If the lights don’t work, don’t put them on the tree,” he said. And finally, he said, make certain smoke detectors are working and there is a fire extinguisher in the home.
The Walton Fire Department is in need of volunteers, Wood said. Member numbers are low. There are numerous ways to volunteer in and for the department, including as an interior/exterior firefighter, ambulance squad member ladies auxiliary member, fire police/traffic control and in support roles. For more information call 607-865-4958 or stop at the fire hall, 61 West Street, Walton.
