“Rigging up the lights” may be one of the pains of decorating for the season, but proper setups can prevent holiday electrical hazards and even save lives.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), December is the peak month for house fires caused by electrical malfunctions.
Matt Lucy, the residential superintendent at Becdel Controls, offers insight into the seven tips listed below to ensure a safe holiday season.
1. Avoid overloading outlets
Holiday lights and decorations can significantly increase your home’s power load. Overloading outlets is a leading cause of electrical fires.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), more than 30 percent of decoration-related fires during the holidays are caused by electrical issues.
2. Choose energy-efficient holiday lights
Making a simple switch of bulbs is smart for safety and savings.
“It’s good to use LED holiday lights whenever possible. They consume less energy and last longer,” Lucy said.
LEDs are cooler, which reduces the risk of a fire. Look for lights with the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification to ensure they meet safety standards.
3. Use extension cords properly
Misuse of extension cords can lead to overheating and fires. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that they cause nearly 3,300 house fires every year.
“Try not to use an excessive amount of extension cords,” Lucy said. “Connecting too many together can be hazardous.”
Extension cords should also never run under carpet or rugs.
4. Inspect decorations before use
Lucy stressed that it’s important to follow manufacturer recommendations for all decorations. Always inspect them first.
“Never used damaged or broken lights. Check for frayed wires or cracked sockets that could cause an electrical malfunction.”
5. Turn off lights when unattended
Holiday lights certainly add a festive charm but leaving them on overnight or when you’re not home is risky.
“Use timers with sensors to cut down on the time that lights are in operation,” he said.
Unattended lights are a common cause of electrical fires during the holiday season.
6. Choose the right outdoor lights
Not all lights are created equal. Indoor lights are not designed to withstand the elements and can overheat or fail in damp conditions, posing safety hazards.
“Make sure all outdoor lights are plugged into GFCI protected outlets and all connections are tight and water resistant,” Lucy said.
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is a safety device that cuts off power when an issue is detected.
7. Hire professionals for complex electrical work
If your holiday plans include elaborate light displays or adding new electrical outlets, Lucy advises leaving anything complicated to the NECA-IBEW Electricians.
“Never hesitate to call the professionals. They can ensure your setup meets safety standards and be sure the job is done right.”
Becdel Controls is a member contractor of NECA-IBEW Electricians, is an association consisting of IBEW Local 64 in Youngstown, IBEW Local 573 in Warren and signatory electrical contractors throughout the Mahoning Valley.