Have you prepared those gleaming lights? How about the tall Christmas trees and oversized garlands and wreaths? While these seasonal decorations make the holiday even more special, they can also wreak havoc when not used properly.
Have a jolly good time and a safe holiday season by avoiding these mistakes while decking the halls.
Overloading The Extension Cord
Extension cords have wattage limits, and that means they should not exceed the said limit or otherwise overheating will happen. However, many homeowners don’t know how their extension cords work during the holiday, plugging in more lights into the available cord sockets. If you want to put lots of sparkling lights, be sure to avoid overloading your extension cord or consult with your trusted electricians for a safer holiday season.
Not Checking The Quality of Decorative Lights
Some homeowners will opt for cheaper decorative lights since they’ll be using them in the short-term. We bet you’re guilty of this! Remember, those cheap lights are not tested, and they can pose safety threats to your family and property, costing you more than you realize. When choosing decorative lights, always check the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label to ensure you’re buying the verified and tested Christmas lights.
Using Hammer Tacks or Nails Into Cords
No one wants to celebrate the holiday with all those hanging light cords around the house. To keep the cords organized, homeowners use hammer tacks or nails when hanging the lights or sticking cables on walls. However, this can damage the cord and cause electrocution. Use clips instead of sharp materials when organizing or attaching lights in and out of your home.
Decorating Near the Overhead Power Lines
The spirit of holidays becomes merrier with all those sparkling decorations around the neighborhood. Everyone is excited about dressing up their yard with something festive and bright. When decorating outside the house, make sure to mind the overhead power lines to avoid electrical hazards.
Not Choosing A Safe Christmas Tree Material
Your Christmas tree can make or break the holiday festivities. While it is made to beautify your home, it can also cause safety hazards when caught by fire. We suggest you buying a fire-resistant tree to prevent fire-related accidents from happening. Ask the store about fire-resistant trees when purchasing.
By taking precautions in and out of your home, you can prevent the possible hazards and keep the holiday season fun. Stay safe and have a wonderful celebration.
Contact us at Tiger Plumbing, Heating & Air for more holiday safety tips or when you need heating services for your Eden Prairie, MN home.
