Choosing and transporting a Christmas tree during the holidays
As households in the United States and Canada prepare for New Year celebrations, many still opt for a live spruce or pine as a natural centerpiece. Yet not everyone has the time to research the proper handling and transportation of a real tree. A recent poll conducted via Viber explored how people approach bringing a tree home and keeping it safe on the journey from shop to doorstep.
“Behind the wheel” on Viber is inviting people to share their experiences and tips for this seasonal task. The conversation reflects a broader interest in how to move a tree without damage to vehicles, property, or people, and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to damaged trees or messy cleanups.
Survey results show a mixed level of familiarity with tree transport rules. About 3% of the 3,543 respondents had heard something about the guidelines but were not confident in applying them. Only 11% felt sure they could transport a tree without drawing concerns from traffic authorities or creating hazards. Roughly one in three participants (34%) admitted they had no idea about the correct process. A majority, 52%, indicated they no longer feel the need to know these rules because they rely on an artificial tree or have not needed to transport a real tree recently.
These numbers point to a wider opportunity: sharing practical, clear guidance on tree transport can reduce risks and frustration. Providing simple steps, from choosing the right rack or vehicle setup to securing the tree in transit, benefits households that opt for live greenery and helps communities prevent car damage and roadside litter during the holiday season.
Transport safety and practical steps for live trees
Acquiring a fresh tree comes with a set of best practices aimed at protecting both people and property. The first step is to measure the vehicle’s cargo space and compare it with the tree height and width. A well-lit, low-wind area is ideal for loading, and it helps to remove fragile ornaments or loose items that could shift during transit. Securing the tree with appropriate ties or straps prevents it from shifting, rolling, or catching wind while driving. In addition, a protective tarp or blanket can guard the trunk and branches against scratches and damage to the interior of the vehicle.
Drivers should consider trimming the trunk slightly if needed, ensuring the cut is straight to help the tree stand securely in a stand once it is home. It is also wise to keep a moisture source in the tree stand and to maintain regular watering during the days after bringing the tree indoors. A practical approach to transport reduces the risk of loose needles, water spills, or structural damage to the vehicle.
Public awareness campaigns and practical demonstrations, such as community workshops or online guides, can help families feel confident about this seasonal task. Clear, step-by-step instructions, including visual cues and common-sense safety tips, empower people to handle real trees with less stress and more enjoyment during the holidays.
Fundraising initiative linked to safe transportation and public safety
In a broader effort to support community safety, the campaign Behind the Wheel and the Popular Front have launched a fundraising drive. The funds are designated to purchase winter tires for essential vehicles used by local law enforcement and emergency services, as well as ambulances, emergency response teams, and humanitarian aid delivery vehicles operating in the region. The goal is to strengthen road safety and ensure that public service vehicles are prepared to respond quickly and efficiently during the holiday season and beyond. Readers can contribute on the designated collection page, with all proceeds directed toward tire purchases and related safety equipment.
These efforts underscore a practical, community-focused approach to holiday safety. By tying a seasonal activity—transporting a live Christmas tree—to broader public safety goals, organizers highlight how simple actions in daily life can connect to larger outcomes for neighborhoods and responders alike, especially in areas facing heavy winter travel and increased traffic during celebrations.
Ultimately, whether a household chooses a live tree or an artificial one, the emphasis remains on safety, preparation, and responsible sharing of knowledge. Practical guidance, transparent demonstrations, and supportive community programs help ensure a festive season that is both joyful and secure for families and public services alike. The conversation continues to evolve, inviting more participants to share experiences, ask questions, and learn practical tips that improve how people move, install, and care for Christmas trees during the holidays. This knowledge benefits drivers, homeowners, and community responders who work together to keep roads safe and celebrations bright. Source: surveys and program updates from community partners and participants.