Bridgeport's mayor, fire department and police department today gave out general safety tips for the holiday season.

Firefighters lit a Christmas tree on fire outside department headquarters to demonstrate just how fast they can burn. They say the drier a tree is, the more flammable it is. They also recommend keeping them away from heaters, furnaces and fireplaces.

Fire officials warn residents to keep their trees well-watered and to avoid overloading electrical outlets. They say to dump hot ashes in a metal garbage can with a tight lid.

Residents are urged to keep a smoke detector in every room. The fire department will even install them for free in any house in Bridgeport.

Police also told people to not leave visible packages in vehicles, which should not be left running while unattended.