Holiday Seasonal Lights Safety Tips

Winter holidays usher in a season of joy, celebration, and tradition. Decorating your home, yard, or office space is a fun way to celebrate the season. It’s easy to get caught up in the festivities, but no matter how you celebrate, it’s important to take some basic precautions to ensure your holidays are as safe and bright as they are merry.

Ready to shine this holiday season? Don’t forget these key safety tips!

Lights 

• Only use lights that have been tested for safety — inside and out! Check for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label.
• Inspect each set of lights, even new ones, for compromised sockets, loose connections, or damaged wires. Safely discard/recycle bad cords. 
• Connect light strands before installation, not during. 
• Keep bulbs upright and off tree needles or branches using a clip or twist-tie. 
• Never leave lights on unattended! Always unplug any decorative lighting before going to bed or leaving the house.
• Go LED! On average, they boast a longer lifespan and don’t get hot to the touch.

Electrical

• Inspect outlets and light switches for damage or loose connections.
• Inspect breakers for damage and clear any debris.
• Avoid overload when using outlets or extension cords.
• Keep cords away from water and metal objects.
• Use a three-prong grounded extension cord with the UL label for outdoor lighting.
• Ensure extension cords are completely uncoiled and kept away from heat sources (like bulbs).
• Never place cords under rugs and doors or through windows where they might be pinched or become worn.

 Trees

• Shopping for a manufactured tree? Check for a fire-resistant label. 
• Longing for a live tree? Show it some love by keeping it supplied with fresh water. 
• Keep trees, manufactured or live, away from fireplaces, radiators, and other sources of heat.
• Never hang electric lights on metallic trees.

Electrical safety is important at any time of the year. If you have questions about what electrical items a home warranty may cover, let us know!