According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 200 people a day experience decoration-related injuries this time of year. Last year almost 13,000 people sought treatment in emergency rooms for incidents related to holiday lights, trees and other adornments. This doesn’t have to happen if you work safely and securely when making your home beautiful for the season. Here are some tips on how to remain injury-free and decorate safely for the holidays.
Outdoor Safety Tips
Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder: Metal ones conduct electricity. Also have someone hold the ladder for you to keep you steady. When someone else is present, you won’t be stranded for hours before help comes should you fall.
Unplug anything electric before installing it: This includes lights, decorations and any other devices. Also unplug when replacing burnt-out bulbs or making repairs.
Plug outdoor decor into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs): This cuts down on the chance of electric shocks.
Protect lights and cords from wind damage: Secure with sturdy tape. Don’t ever staple or nail through electrical wires.
Indoor Safety Tips
Use LED lights: They use less energy, last longer and run cooler. Look for the Underwriters Laboratory, “UL” approval on any lights your use.
Toss lights that are in disrepair: When you encounter cracks in the cord, damaged sockets or bare wires replace with a new set. Faulty issues like this can easily spark an electrical fire or shock someone.
Go easy on your outlets: Don’t overload them with more than they can easily handle.
Turn off electrical decorations at bedtime: Don’t leave lights or other electrical décor on while you’re sleeping or when you’re away from home.
Safeguard your outlets: If children are present, place safety caps on your electrical outlets when they are not in use.
When in doubt, give us a call! Our number one goal is to keep you and your family safe during this fun and festive season. Cathey Electric’s team of expert electricians have the tools and tips to make sure your holiday setup is safe and sound. If you need guidance or an experienced ear to run your holiday decoration ideas by, we are here to help.
