Holiday Lights Make The Season Bright
Holiday lights make the season bright...
...but also pose a fire risk, especially on a LIVE tree.
Here are some recommendations from the Electrical Safety Foundation International for holiday decorating safety.
Before you hang lights anywhere do a quick inspection for things like frayed wires and broken bulbs.
If it doesn't work you shouldn't use it. There's a reason why it doesn't work and a lot of those safeguards are built in to protect you.
If you need to replace items, make sure you buy from a retailer you trust to avoid potentially counterfeit goods. One cord set bought from a vendor on the street showed they skimped on the wiring by using flammable rubber coating. Clearly that's a fire hazard.
Don't overload your electrical outlets. A lot of times people plug their Christmas tree lights into one outlet, along with 5 or 6 other things. This could cause a shock or even electrocution.
Unplug lights before you go to bed or when you leave the house.
Treat it like a stove. You're not going to leave a stove on, it's the same principle.
Keep children or pets away from decorations.
Also keep in mind that outdoor lights are intended for temporary use and should be taken down when the season is over.
www.electricsafetyservices.com
