Holiday Lighting

If you plan to brighten your business or home with festive holiday lights, you should look for and eliminate potential danger spots. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Don't overload electric circuits by putting too many strings of lights together and plugging them into a single outlet. If you need more outlets, use a surge protector strip. But first, check the fuse box or breaker panel to determine what amperage the circuit can handle and stay well within the limits.
Never use electrical decorations on metal trees. Instead, place colored spotlights beside or above the tree. Be careful though; spotlights get extremely hot. If you use a non-metal artificial tree, make sure it is not flammable.
Match plugs with outlets. Never force a three-pronged plug into a two-hole outlet or extension cord. Also, don't hide cords under floor mats in an entrance hall, under rugs or across doorways.
Watch for flickering lights, warm wall switch plates and outlets or lights that dim when other appliances are turned on. These are warning signs of potential danger that could cause an electrical fire.
Finally, outdoor lights should all be UL-approved and specially designed for outdoor use. They should have insulated cords and be plugged into a Ground Fault Interrupter-protected receptacle, off the ground away from puddles or snow.

To reduce your chance of becoming a holiday fire statistic, here are more life-saving steps to ensure a safe and happy holiday.