It’s that time of the year again when you start thinking about decorating your home with beautiful holiday lights. While holiday lights can add a festive touch to any home, it’s important to remember that they can also pose safety hazards if not installed and maintained correctly. This guide will go over some essential tips on how to safely decorate your home with holiday lights. So, get started!
Hire an Electrician
One of the most important steps in ensuring holiday lights safety is to hire a licensed residential electrician to install them. They are trained professionals who know how to handle electrical wiring properly and can make sure that your lights are installed safely. While it may seem simple, installing holiday lights can be dangerous if you don’t have the necessary skills and knowledge. It’s always better to leave it to the experts.
Check for Damaged Lights
Before hanging up your holiday lights, thoroughly inspect them for any damage. Look for frayed wires, broken bulbs, or cracked sockets. If you find any damaged lights, do not use them as they can cause a fire hazard. Instead, replace them with new ones to ensure the safety of your home and family.
Use Outdoor-Rated Lights
When decorating the exterior of your home, make sure to use lights specifically designed for outdoor use. These lights are made with weather-resistant materials and can withstand the elements such as rain, snow, and wind. Using indoor lights outdoors can be dangerous as they are not built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Don’t Overload Outlets
It may be tempting to plug multiple strands of lights into one outlet, but this can lead to overloading and potentially cause a fire. Be mindful of the number of lights you plug into an outlet, and avoid using extension cords if possible. If you need an extension cord, ensure it is rated for outdoor use and has a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electrical shocks.
Turn Off Lights when Sleeping or Away
Turn off the holiday lights when you go to bed or leave the house. Leaving them on for extended periods can increase the risk of fire hazards. Consider using a timer to automatically turn off your lights at a set time, giving you peace of mind while saving energy.
Keep Lights Away from Flammable Objects
When hanging up holiday lights, ensure they are not in contact with flammable objects such as curtains, paper decorations, or dried foliage. This includes keeping them away from candles and open flames as well. It’s important to keep a safe distance between your lights and any potential fire hazards.
If you encounter any electrical issues while installing or using holiday lights, don’t hesitate to call a professional electrician. Signs of electrical malfunction include flickering lights, tripping circuit breakers, or strange smells. It’s always better to be safe than sorry about electricity. Find a licensed electrician in your area and get the job done safely.