Deck the Halls with Caution: Christmas Tree Light Safety Tips Festive Fun Without the Fire Hazards
Christmas lights are an essential part of the holiday season, but it’s important to remember that they can also be a fire hazard. According to the National Electrical Safety Foundation, Christmas tree fires account for an average of 160 home fires per year, causing $5.3 million in property damage.
To help you keep your holiday season merry and bright, here are some important Christmas tree light safety tips:
Before you string:
- Inspect your lights. Before you put up your lights, take some time to inspect them for any damage. Look for cracked or broken bulbs, frayed wires, and loose connections. Throw away any damaged lights and don’t use them.
- Choose the right lights. Make sure you’re using lights that are specifically designed for Christmas trees. Indoor lights should not be used outdoors, and vice versa. Look for lights that have the UL or ETL listing, which means they have been tested and certified for safety.
- LED the way. LED lights are a great option for Christmas trees because they are much more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also produce less heat, which can help to reduce the risk of fire.
While you’re decorating:
- Don’t overload your outlets. A single outlet can only handle a certain amount of power. Don’t overload it by plugging in too many light strings. A good rule of thumb is to use no more than three strands of lights per outlet.
- Keep cords safe. Run cords carefully so they’re not pinched or snagged by furniture or doors. Don’t run cords under carpets or rugs, and don’t hide them in curtains or other flammable materials.
- Secure your lights. Use clips or hooks to secure your lights to the tree. This will help to prevent them from falling and causing a fire.
- Turn it off. Turn off your lights before you go to bed or leave the house. This will help to prevent any electrical accidents.
Bonus tips:
- Keep flammable materials away from your tree. This includes things like tinsel, garland, and wrapping paper.
- Don’t use candles on your tree. Candles are a beautiful way to add ambiance, but they’re also a fire hazard. If you must use candles, make sure they are placed in a safe location and never leave them unattended.
- Have a working fire extinguisher on hand. Just in case, it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of an emergency.
By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your Christmas tree safe and enjoy the holiday season without worry.
Additional Resources:
- National Electrical Safety Foundation: https://www.esfi.org/
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: https://www.cpsc.gov/
