Holiday Lighting and Decoration Safety Tips

A cozy, festively decorated house bustling with winter holiday preparations and surrounded by symbols of safety and comfort

• Electrical Safety

  Safety tips related to the electrical aspects of holiday decorations

  • Use Certified Products

    Only use lights and electronic decorations certified by recognized testing laboratories like UL or ETL.

  • Inspect Light Strands

    Check all light strands for frayed wires, cracked cords, and broken sockets before use.

  • Avoid Overloading Outlets

    Do not overload electrical outlets with multiple decoration units to prevent electrical fires.

  • Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

    Install GFCIs on outdoor outlets to protect against electrical shocks.

  • Turn Off Before Bed

    Always turn off all holiday lights before going to bed or leaving the house.

• Indoor Decoration Safety

  Tips for safely handling indoor decorations

  • Securely Fasten Decorations

    Ensure that all decorations are securely fastened to avoid accidents, especially in high traffic areas.

  • Non-flammable Decorations

    Use non-flammable or flame-retardant decorations to reduce fire risks.

  • Keep Away from Heat Sources

    Place decorations away from heat sources like fireplaces, candles, and heaters.

  • Safe Placement of Ornaments

    Place breakable or small ornaments out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidents.

  • Check Stability of the Christmas Tree

    Ensure that the Christmas tree is stable and secure in its stand to prevent it from tipping over.

• Outdoor Decoration Safety

  Ensuring safety while using outdoor holiday decorations

  • Weatherproof Decorations

    Use decorations designated for outdoor use that can withstand weather conditions.

  • Securely Anchor Outdoor Lights

    Tightly secure all outdoor lights and decorations to prevent damage from wind or weather.

  • Safe Ladder Use

    When hanging lights, use a sturdy ladder and have someone assist you for stability.

  • Avoid Metallic Tinsel Outdoors

    Avoid using metallic tinsel outdoors as it can interfere with power lines.

  • Light Pathways

    Use additional lighting to illuminate pathways and avoid tripping hazards.