‘Tis the Season for Christmas light safety tips
For many it’s a time-honored tradition, venturing out on a cold winter night to enjoy Christmas lights displayed by neighbors, family and friends. While the holiday season abounds with fun, we cannot forget that taking the proper precautions will ensure our loved ones remain safe. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when creating your Christmas light display:
• Even though lights are certainly safer than candles, they can still generate a great deal of heat. If possible, use LED lights, which do not create heat. You can string numerous strands together without worry of overloading circuitry. They also use up to 80% less energy than traditional lights.
• Never hang lights on a metal tree or wreath. A circuit short in the cord will charge and severely shock someone if contact is made.
• Almost all lights require a ladder for installation. Please select the correct one. Do not stand on the top two steps of the ladder and ask someone to assist you by holding onto it.
• Too many plugs in one outlet can create enough heat to cause a fire.
If these simple precautions are taken, you’re in for a fun, merry and safe holiday season!
