Holiday lights and electrical decorations brighten the home and spread a festive spirit – but they also pose fire and electrical shock hazards, especially if they are not handled properly. Always take the following precautions while decorating:
- Inspect holiday lights, strings and extension cords before decorating. Replace any that are fraying or otherwise damaged. Pay special attention to lights, cords or decorations that may have been damaged from winter weather conditions.
- Check for red or green UL marks on all light strings and extension cords. The green holographic UL Mark means the light strings should be used only indoors. The red holographic UL Mark indicates the light strings can be used inside and can also withstand conditions related to outdoor use.
- Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for stringing light sets together. As a general rule, Underwriters Laboratories (UL) recommends stringing no more than three standard-size sets of lights together.
- Do not overload extension cords or electrical receptacles.
- Unplug all holiday lights when you go to sleep or leave home.
- Automatic lighting timers can be used to ensure that lights are not left on.
- Roll up excess electrical cords and keep them away from high traffic areas. Do not run electrical cords under rugs or tree skirts, and keep them away from tree water.
- Never keep an extension cord plugged in when it is not in use.
- When replacing a light bulb, make sure that the replacement bulb is of equal or lesser wattage than that recommended by the manufacturer.
- If you have children in your home, use safety caps on all electrical outlets.
For more information and resources to stay safe in and around the home during the holidays and year round, please visit the Home Safety Council.
Request Catalog
Conney Safety Information