‘Tis the season to put up lights and other holiday decorations. It’s also the season for electrical fires due to holiday decorations being put up poorly or carelessly. How can you be safe when putting up your holiday decorations? Here are a few tips.
Tree Safety
When putting up your tree, keep it away from the fireplace, heaters, candles, or anything else that could cause it to ignite. Check the water levels every day and be sure to water it regularly — about one quart of water for every inch of diameter in its trunk.
If the tree is allowed to dry out, it becomes more of a fire hazard. If you can get a potted Christmas tree rather than one that’s been cut down, this can help it stay healthy longer. At the very least, get the freshest tree you can. If it starts shedding a lot of needles, that’s a sign that it’s drying out and should be discarded.
Light Safety
Whether on the tree or around your home, no holiday would be complete without a few lights. If you’re using the same lights you used last year, check them carefully for frayed wires. If you find any, throw that string of lights out and buy a new one. Check for burnt-out bulbs and bad fuses as well, and replace them as needed.
If you’re going to hang lights outside, make sure they’re specifically rated for outdoor use. If you’re going to plug them into an extension cord, make sure it’s also rated for outdoor use and that it is approved by Underwriters Laboratories.
Check the warning labels to see exactly how many strings of lights you can plug into one another safely — and don’t exceed that number. Older lights in particular tend to overload when you string more than three light strands together.
If you follow these simple guidelines, you’ll have safe and satisfying holiday decorations to bring you cheer all season long.
For more help with putting up holiday decorations safely, contact us at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. Safety and comfort for the Yuma area are our top priorities.
