Beware of Hazards When Holiday Decorating

How to Safely Decorate for the Holidays

Holiday lighting and decor can be a great way to enjoy the holiday season. However, they should be used safely and with the right preparation to avoid unforeseen hazards like fires and overloads. Here are some electrical safety tips to keep in mind when decorating. 

What to Know Before Using Holiday Lights and Decor

Regardless of what type of lighting or electric decorations are used for the holidays, a thorough inspection is necessary. Before plugging in any lights and decorations, homeowners are advised to check them thoroughly for any damage, especially with older lights and decor that could have been damaged in storage.

Check for damage and issues with the wiring, cords, bulbs, and more with any lights or decor being used, and don’t use them if any issues are found, as it could become a safety and fire hazard. Even newly purchased Halloween and holiday decor can be damaged, so be sure to check them before use. 

Does Location Matter?

When using a lot of holiday lights and electric decorations, it’s also important to ensure that electrical circuits are not being overloaded. So, try to spread them out on different circuits that can handle the electrical load. Exceeding the load for the circuit can cause the circuit breaker to trip and shut off the power. If the wiring overheats, it has the potential to start a fire.

Outdoor lights and decorations are especially popular during the holidays. However, for safety, it’s crucial that homeowners only use lights and decor designed for outdoor use and can handle the weather. 

Late Night Safety

After the festivities, it’s tempting to leave holiday lights on. However, homeowners should turn off the electric decor and holiday lights before bed or when leaving the house to reduce the fire risk. Additionally, before going to sleep or leaving home, it’s essential to blow out any candles. Candles are a great way to add to holiday decor, but they are a fire hazard when left unattended. 

About Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning

Cardinal Heating & Air Conditioning is a plumbing, HVAC, and electrical company serving the Sun Prairie area. With over 40 years of service, they have become a one-stop shop for various home services. Call today to schedule electrical services in Sun Prairie, WI!

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