Holiday Decorating: Safety Tips For Your Home

Before You Start

1. Use lights that have been safety tested. LED lights tend to use less energy, run cooler and last longer than traditional incandescent lights.
2. Never link too many light strings together. The packaging should state a maximum strings limit.
3. Plan your display around where outlets are and how many you have. Do not overload outlets.
4. Inspect all lights to ensure there are no broken bulbs or frayed wires that can cause shock or start fires.
5. Unplug lights before changing bulbs or attempting repairs.

Building Your Display

1. For outside displays, make sure that you and your equipment are at least 10 feet away from any power lines.
2. All lights should be plugged into ground-fault circuit interrupters to reduce risk of shock.
3. Make sure that all decorations are secure to prevent wind damage. Do not staple or nail through wires or extension cords.
4. Metal ladders conduct electricity so use wood or fiberglass ladders and step stools while hanging lights.

Decoration Safety

1. Be sure that when you leave the house or go to bed, all lights and decorations are turned off or unplugged.
2. Do not place candles in areas with flammable items or where they may be easily knocked over. Do not leave lit candles unattended. Consider battery-operated candles to reduce fire risks.

After Holiday Storage

1. Once the holidays are over, inspect all decorations and discard any that are damaged before storing them.
2. Make sure decorations are stored in a dry, out of the way location.