There’s nothing like putting up lights and decorations to get into the holiday spirit. It’s something many do every year without incident, yet the holidays are also one of the most hazardous times of the year when it comes to fires and electrical accidents.
Unfortunately, every year people do get hurt while decorating. We tend to get eager to finish so we can enjoy the lights, but it’s best to take your time, think before you start, and don’t forget to put safety first. Safe Electricity offers several tips as you deck the halls this season.
Holiday lights
When using holiday lights, whether indoors or out, look for certification by an accredited independent testing laboratory, such as UL. Make sure the lights are properly rated, and only use lights rated for outdoor use when placing outside.
Many of today’s light strands are LED, which produces light without the heat of conventional incandescent bulbs. They are popular for good reason, since the lifespan of LEDs is 25 times that of incandescent lights. They also are much more energy efficient than traditional bulbs.
Before decorating begins, examine the light strands for damaged plugs and cords, and discard items that are cracked, old or frayed.
Do not run cords under carpets, through doorways or in a way that could cause a tripping hazard. Puppies and other pets love to chew on electrical cords, including light strands and extension cords. Keep cords out of sight or hidden with a cord cover.
Turn off all lights before leaving home and going to sleep. (A timer will help you stay on track.) Also, check that any extension cord you use is rated for its intended use, especially if used outdoors.
Use candles with care
Only burn candles where you can keep an eye on them. Extinguish candles before going to bed, leaving the room or leaving the house. Place them out of reach of children and pets on heat-resistant surfaces. Keep candles away from flammable items like trees, decorations, curtains and furniture. The safest option is using battery-operated candles.
Fireplace safety tips
A cozy fireplace is a holiday favorite, but it requires careful handling. Decorate wisely. Avoid hanging flammable decorations like stockings and greenery directly on the mantel.
Perform annual maintenance. Have your chimney and fireplace checked and cleaned at least once a year. Use a screen to prevent embers from landing on floors, rugs or carpet.
Tree selection and placement
When selecting your tree, make sure that you consider the safest option for your home. If you are decorating with an artificial tree, make sure you choose a fire-resistant one.
With a real tree, make sure the needles are green and sturdy with a trunk that is sticky with resin. These are indicators that your tree is well-hydrated. Keep your tree stand filled with water so the tree does not become overly dry and present a fire hazard.
Always consider the optimal placement of your tree. Ensure that it is placed at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as fireplaces or radiators and on a stable platform. When discarding a real tree, place it far from your home and other combustible objects, as dried trees are highly flammable.
Decorating outdoors
When decorating outside, respect electrical equipment. Look up and around for power lines. Never throw lights or other decorations into trees near power lines, and do not attach cords or lights to utility poles. Remember to keep ladders, equipment and yourself at least 10 feet from power lines.
Match plugs with outlets. Do not force a three-pronged plug into a two-pronged outlet or extension cord. Only use lights, cords, animated displays and decorations rated for outdoor use. Ensure outdoor outlets or extension cords are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters.
Never string more strands of lights together than recommended by the manufacturer. Do not staple or nail through light strands or electrical cords. Use plastic or insulated hooks to hang lights.
Safe Electricity hopes your season will be safe, merry and bright. For more information, visit SafeElectricity.org.
