10 Safety Tips For Running Model Trains Around The Christmas Tree.

December 25, 2006

Every festive season, thousands of families bring out the old train set to run around the Christmas tree, or to just entertain young and old alike. Model trains (especially G scale,
O scale and O27 scale model trains) are part of the Christmas tradition for many households.

To quickly explain – G scale are 1/32 to 1/20 scale model trains. G track has two rails, and its gauge is 1 3/4 inches. O and O27 are 1/48 scale model trains, with a gauge of 1¼ inches.

O and O27 track has three rails. Lionel is probably the most well-known brand of O and O27 scale model trains. Other popular O and O27 manufacturers include Lionel, Marx, MTH, K-Line and Williams.

Here are 10 simple tips to make the Christmas tree and the model train experience a little safer over the holiday period:

1. The first thing to remember is that a model train running around the Christmas tree is likely to attract the attention and interest of people who are not used to handling model trains. This is especially true of young children who could be tempted to pick up the train, knock the track, or play with the transformer. Also, be aware that pets may take an interest in the Christmas model train set too! Be safety wise.

2. There is nothing like the look, real and smell of a real Christmas tree, but do remember to water it daily. A moist tree is a safe tree. When it becomes dry, it is time to remove it.
It pays to think of fire safety, since so many decorations involve light and electricity. Where there’s electricity and light, there’s heat.

3. Use a fire -retardant tree skirt around the base of the tree. The cheap cotton tree skirts are not safe. Spend a few extra dollars for a better tree skirt – and the better ones last year after year.

4. Keep metal away from train tracks. Be especially careful if you use tinsel. Tinsel can cause a short circuit if it falls across the tracks. (Tinsel can also be harmful to pets and small children).

5. Many Christmas train sets last for years and years and are only used during the festive season. This is why it is important to check the transformer’s wall socket wire and plug. If it is frayed or worn, have it serviced. The same goes for corrosion. Rust means it’s time for refurbishing or replacement. Make sure your transformer has a built-in circuit breaker for added safety. If not, replace it.

6. Check all wires for splits, cracks and wear. Consider replacing track and accessory wire with 18-gauge stranded wire from any electronic or electrical supplier. The shop staff should be able to provide the advice needed.

7. Sparking happens when contact rollers and wheels hit gaps or rough spots in track. If the track on the Christmas train set is old, replace it. It won’t cost much to replace track.

8. Lubricate gears on locomotives with lubricant, and oil axles. Make sure to oil the center rail contact roller, if you use O gauge.

9. For added safety, get a fire -retardant material (such as a fire retardant vinyl) and cut into strips to place under track. This will catch sparks.

10. Never leave trains running unattended.