Learn How to Safely Display Your Holiday Decorations

The hazards of holiday decorations are well known. As statistics issued by the National Fire Protection Association attest, December and January are the peak months for fires due to holiday decorations and candles. If you’re concerned about how to make your holiday decorations safer this season, read on.

Making Holiday Decorations Safer

1. Avoid lighting candles. Many holiday fires are caused by lit candles. You now have other choices for use in decorating, including flameless candles. If you do opt for lit candles, make sure you never place them near an object that can go up in flames, such as a Christmas tree. Place candles on a sturdy base so they are not in danger of tipping over. Also, be sure to extinguish them when you’re ready to go to bed.
2. Keep the Christmas tree away from heating sources. Keep your Christmas tree well away from heat sources such as space heaters, the fireplace, and heating vents.
3. Choose a fresh Christmas tree. If your Christmas tree is already dropping needles when you’re setting it up, you’d do better to throw it away and get another, fresher one. A dried-out Christmas tree is dangerous, whether from being too close to a heat source or from a possible short with electrical lighting. Once you get a tree, be sure to keep it hydrated. Avoid setting it up directly under a central heating vent, which can exacerbate drying.
4. Check electrical lights carefully. Check the cord on your electrical lights carefully to make sure they all light up before you put them up. Check the cords and plug for damage or fraying. Discard the lights if they are frayed or the cord is not intact. Follow manufacturers’ recommendations and do not put too many strands together — usually that’s three strands of lights. Do not overload circuits.
5. Plug outdoor electric devices into GFCI outlets. GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets will help prevent accidental electrocutions. These outlets should be protected from the weather by a cover.

For more on displaying holiday decorations safely, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning.