BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts fire officials are urging residents not to keep Christmas trees too long into the new year.

State Fire Marshal Stephen Coan says if a dried out Christmas tree ignites, it can spread a fire quickly.

Authorities say residents should take advantage of community pickup days or recycling programs if they are available.

To find out if your community has a tree recycling program, visit earth911.org online and put in your zip code.

Coan says discarded Christmas trees also can be easy fuel for arsonists.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.