There’s nothing more festive and beautiful then a house lit up with Holiday Lights this time of year. There’s also nothing more hazardous if your not careful. So, before you “deck the halls” there’s a few things you need to know:
Before Hanging the Lights
- Get rid of old strands of lights. Modern lights are safer because they have fused plugs that prevent sparks in case of a short circuit.
- Only use lights that have been tested and rated by Underwriters Laboratory (UL) or Intertel (ETL Semko).
- Check for cracked cords, frayed ends or loose connections. Hanging lights with damaged cords can lead to electrical shorts.
- Replace any bulbs that have burned out with new bulbs of the same wattage.
- Before hanging lights, make sure you are hanging them in the environment that they are intended for.
- Avoid hanging lights near items that possess any potential fire safety hazards, such as heaters, candles, fire places etc.
- Make sure bulbs are out of the way of flammable materials such as loose paper.
- Don’t use tacks, nails or screws to hang lights. Use insulated hooks instead.
- Do not link more than three light strands unless the directions indicate it’s safe to do so.
Once the lights are in Place
- Check the quality and length of extension cords. Do not try and use extension cords for more wattage then they are designed to accommodate.
- If outside, make sure your using outdoor extension cords. The same goes for indoors usage.
- When running extensions cords along the ground, elevate cords and connectors with a brick or other device to keep out debris.
- Keep placement of extension cords in mind. It’s important that they are not at risk of pulling over other decorations.
- Tape extension cords down to avoid someone tripping over them.
- Do not leave lights on when your house is unattended or when everyone is asleep.
- If a bulb burns out replace it immediately.
- Make sure you periodically check the wires, they should not be warm to the touch.
- If your putting lights on a tree, make sure that tree is well watered.
- Never put lights on a metal tree.
A Few Other Notes…
- Be very careful to place lights out of the reach of children.
- When hanging lights in your office, make sure that your decorations of fully compliant with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
- When you put your lights back into storage make sure they are in a well-sealed container to prevent water damage.
Everyone at LPL Risk Management wishes you and your loved ones a Happy, Healthy, & Safe Holiday Season!