Holiday Safety Tips.

12/7/2018 (Permalink)

We all enjoy lights during the holiday season but beware of the possible danger.

Holiday lighting poses a real fire risk if not used safely. So before you finish the

holiday decorating, be sure to check out these holiday lights safety tips:

Christmas Trees

Many artificial trees are fire resistant. If you buy one, look for a statement specifying this protection

A fresh tree will stay green longer and be less of a fire hazard than a dry tree

Use only Christmas tree lights that are rated for indoor use and tested for safety. Check for the label of an independent testing laboratory like Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL).

If you have a metallic Christmas tree, never put electric lights on it to avoid the risk of electric shock.

Before using lights, check each set of lights for worn or broken cords, broken or cracked sockets, and loose bulb connections. Replace damaged lights.

Connect no more than three standard-size sets of lights into an extension cord. Don’t overload electrical outlets or extension cords, instead plug lights into different circuits around your home.

Don’t fasten colored spotlights onto metallic trees. Use them above or beside your tree to prevent tree branches from becoming charged with electricity from faulty lights.

Turn off the all Christmas lights and decorations when going to bed or leaving home.

Keep pets safe by protecting electric cords and tree lights so that they can’t chew them and get electrocuted.

Outdoor Lights

Make sure outdoor lights are rated for exterior use by an independent testing laboratory. Exterior lights and extension cords used outdoors need to be weather-resistant.

Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage. However, don't attach light strings with nails or staples as these can cut through the wire insulation and start a fire. Use only UL-approved hangers.

The tree can become charged with electricity from faulty lights, and any person touching a branch could be electrocuted! To avoid this danger, use colored spotlights above or beside a tree, never fastened onto it!

Take exterior lights down within 90 days to prevent hazards from weather damage or animals chewing on them.

Store lights safely after taking them down. Tangled lights can lead to damaged cords and broken sockets. They can be difficult to untangle! Wrap the strings around a piece of cardboard, cover them in paper or fabric, and then store in a sturdy container until next year.

Candles

Never use real candles to decorate a tree. Use battery-operated, flame-less LED candles instead.

If you do use real candles, follow these candle fire safety guidelines:

Use only non-flammable candle holders.

Place candles where they can’t be knocked down or blown over.

Keep candles away from any flammable objects like decorations or drapes.

Never burn candles near trees or greenery.

Never leave a burning candle unattended. .

Keep safe this Holiday season.  SERVPRO of Collinsville/Troy is always here to help