2021 Holiday Lights Safety Tips

There’s something magical about lights during the holiday season. But with all the great tidings and festivities also comes added risk. Holiday lights, whether on trees or in outlets, can pose a real fire risk if not used safely. So, before you deck the halls, be sure to check out our tried and true holiday lights safety tips.

Christmas Trees

• Only buy and use Christmas tree lights and holiday lights that are rated for indoor use and tested for safety. Check for the label of an independent testing laboratory or a third party testing.
• If you have a metallic Christmas tree, electric lights are not for you. Avoid putting electric lights on the tree to avoid the risk of electric shock.
• If you have an electric tree and want lights, place them above the tree or nearby.
• Before using holiday lights, check each set of lights for signs of overuse or misuse. If your lights’ cords are worn out, frayed, or snapped, replace them. Also, if your lights have broken or cracked sockets, or loose bulb connections, it is best to replace them as well.
• Connect no more than three standard-size sets of lights into an extension cord. Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords. Instead, plug lights into different circuits around your home.
• Turn off all Christmas lights and decorations when going to bed or leaving home.
• Keep pets safe by protecting electric cords and tree lights so that they can’t chew on them and get electrocuted.

Outdoor Holiday Lights

• Make sure outdoor holiday lights are rated for exterior use and are tested by a independent testing laboratory. Exterior lights and extension cords used outdoors need to be weather-resistant.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, houses, walls, or other firm support to protect from wind damage. Whatever you do, don’t attach light strings with nails or staples as these can cut through the wire insulation and start a fire. Use only UL-approved light hangers.
• Take exterior lights down within 90 days (after the holidays) to prevent hazards from weather damage or from critters chewing on them.
• Store lights safely after taking them down. Tangled lights can lead to damaged cords and broken sockets. They are also a pain to untangle! Wrap the strings around a piece of cardboard, cover them in paper or fabric, and then store them in a sturdy container until next year, or next use.

Candles

• Never use real candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flameless LED candles instead.
• If you do use real candles elsewhere, follow our candle fire safety guidelines:
  • Use only non-flammable candle holders.
  • Place candles where they can’t be knocked down or blown over.
  • Keep candles away from any flammable objects like decorations or drapes.
  • Never burn candles near trees or greenery.
  • Always keep burning candles within your sight.
  • Extinguish all candles before going to bed, leaving the room, or leaving your home.

Contact PuroClean Disaster Response for Fire Restoration Services in Middlesex

Our family at PuroClean wishes you and yours a safe and wonderful holiday! Should you need it, PuroClean’s disaster restoration services are standing by to help mitigate property damage. Call us at 732-366-9300 for professional fire restoration services in Middlesex.