How to Safely put up a real, live Christmas tree

Make sure this year's live holiday Christmas tree is not only pretty, but safe, too. Here's how to safely put up a real, live Christmas tree. You will need:

a fresh tree

a tree stand

water

a ceiling hook

a piece of wire

tree lights

blue masking tape

LED tree lights

heavy-gauge extension cord

Tip: Needles should bend, but not break. The trunk should feel sticky with sap.