This article was published in December 2019 and may be outdated.
Nothing says Christmas like a colourful light display.
But with all the glittering outdoor lights, inflatable yard decorations, and lights on your Christmas tree, there’s an increased risk of electrical hazards.
Follow these tips to so you and your family have a safe holiday season:
- Inspect electrical decorations for damage before use. Cracked or damaged sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections may cause a serious shock or start a fire.
- Lights and extension cords are rated for indoor or outdoor use. Read the package instructions and never exceed the recommended wattage.
- Buy decorations with the mark of an accredited certification agency. Decorations not bearing a label from an independent testing laboratory have not been tested for safety and could be hazardous.
- No more than three light strings can be safely connected together in most cases – read manufacturers’ instructions for directions.
- Do not overload electrical outlets. Overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires are a common cause of holiday fires.
- Use the proper clips for securing lights and decorations. Staples and nails can damage electrical cords.
- Check for overhead power lines before using a ladder outside or when you’re handling lights on trees.
- Use GFCI-protected receptacles to protect you from shock when plugging in outdoors. Keep outdoor connections above ground and out of wet snow. Also use a timer so they turn on and off automatically.
- Watch that children and pets don’t put electrical decorations or cords in their mouths.
- Stay in the kitchen when you’re cooking. Once your holiday meal is ready, check that the stove and oven are turned off and other kitchen appliances are unplugged when leaving the kitchen.
- Turn off indoor holiday lights and decorations when you leave the house or go to bed.
- Holiday decorations aren’t designed for year-round use and can deteriorate over time. Take them down when the holidays are over.
The holidays are a time of joy, laughter, and quality time with family and friends. Taking a few moments to be safe will ensure that your holiday will be safe for you and your loved ones.