It’s tradition after all. And it’s undeniable that a house that’s lit up with Christmas lights is truly a sight to behold. But this beauty also comes with safety risks that could prove to be catastrophic if you aren’t careful. House fires are one of the most likely risks you’re not careful with your Christmas lights.
So, how exactly are you going to ensure that you not only get to bedazzle your neighbors with the lights strewn across your roof, but you’re going to do so safely?
Check The Lights You’re Going To Use
When purchasing a set of Christmas lights, you need to make sure that they are in good condition. Check for any loose connections and cracked cords, as well as burnt out bulbs. Most modern lights have fused plugs that keep them from causing any sparks when they get shorted. This is one feature that you should be willing to pay extra cash for.
You should also check if the set you’re buying has been tested and rated by a federally-recognized lab. This article lists all the labs that are qualified to test these lights.
Worst case scenario, you or someone else is injured by a defective light, look for a personal injury lawyer if you wish to take the manufacturer of the defective product to court.
Routinely Check The Connections
If you’re using extension cords, check if they’re hot often. When they are, unplug them. When you’re trying to secure the cords of the lights, avoid using anything that can pierce the cord like thumbtacks, screws and nails. Insulated hooks are the best option for what you need to do.
Switch Off The Lights Before Sleeping or Leaving
When lights are left unattended, that is when they become the riskiest. They are known to overheat when left on for too long. When they do overheat, they become a fire hazard. It’s a simple course of action that doesn’t take more than a few seconds to do properly, yet, it can save you thousands of dollars and more importantly, it will prevent injury and death to the residents as well as the surrounding households.
Nothing ruins the holidays like a house fire.
Store Them Properly
Now, if you’ve done everything mentioned above properly, you’re most likely going to have had a great holiday. But the vigilance and care shouldn’t end there. If you plan on using that same set of Christmas lights next year, you’re going to have to make sure to store them properly.
A lot can happen to these lights in a year and nothing but proper storage is going to keep them in top condition by the time you bring them out the following year. Store your lights in well-sealed containers to help prevent any critters from chewing on the wires and to also help protect the lights from water damage.
