December has arrived and it’s time to deck the halls, trim the tree, and make your home merry and bright. It’s also the time of year where the extra lights and decorations you use not only take up more energy, but also put you at risk for electrical fires if you’re not careful. As you get the boxes of Christmas decorations out of storage and try to untangle the lights, there are some important electrical safety tips you should follow to ensure that you are using the correct lights and taking the proper precautions so your family will have a holly jolly holiday.
Posted by: PG&E Corporation
Bright Ideas for Staying Safe and Saving Energy this Holiday Season
Holiday Lighting Safety
- Check for overhead power lines before hanging outdoor lights, keeping at least 10 feet away from lines.
- Make sure lights are approved for outdoor use. Never use indoor lights outdoors.
- Follow the manufacturer’s limits for the number of strings that can safely be connected.
- Check strands for cracked or broken plugs, frayed insulation, or bare wires. Worn cords can cause fires, so discard damaged sets of lights.
- Don't place cords under rugs, furniture, or other appliances. If covered, cords can overheat or become frayed, increasing the risk of fire.
- Always turn off decorative lights—indoors and outdoors—when leaving the house and before going to bed.
- Do not place your holiday tree near a heat source such as a fireplace or heat vent. The heat will dry out the tree, making it more susceptible to fires caused by heat, flame or sparks.
Candle and Cooking Safety
- Never use lit candles to decorate a tree. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
- Keep lit candles away from decorations and other things that can burn.
- Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop. Start with a clean oven to reduce the risk of a grease fire.
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According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 400 home fires a year are caused by holiday lights and decorations, resulting in more than $25 million in property damage. That’s a lot of fires that could have been easily preventable by following the electrical safety tips above. In fact, why not make it your New Year’s resolution to start practicing electrical safety tips all year long by making sure your home electrical system is up to par. The related articles below can help you get started.
At Experts In Your Home, the safety of your home and family is important to us. If you have any questions or would like more information, contact our expert electrical technicians in Chico today.
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