Holiday Lighting Safety
- Choose Tested Lights: Use holiday lights with the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) safety label.
- Inspect Before Use: Check all light strands for broken sockets, frayed cords, or faulty plugs before decorating.
- Turn Off Lights: Always switch off decorative lights before going to bed or leaving home. Consider using a timer for convenience.
- Avoid Overloading: Don’t overload extension cords or outlets, as this can cause electrical shocks or fires.
- Safe Handling: Unplug lights before replacing bulbs, and follow manufacturer guidelines on the number of light strands to connect.
- Outdoor Use: Use lights, cords, and decorations specifically rated for outdoor use.
- GFCI Protection: Plug outdoor cords into outlets with GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters). Use a portable GFCI if needed.
- Avoid Power Lines: Keep light strands away from tree branches near power lines or service connections.
Tree Placement and Care
- Safe Positioning: Keep fresh-cut and artificial trees away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, and TVs.
- Water Fresh Trees: Water fresh-cut trees regularly to prevent drying and reduce fire risk.
Electrical Safety for High-Traffic Areas
- Cords Placement: Keep electrical cords out of walkways and high-traffic areas to avoid tripping hazards.
- Avoid Hiding Cords: Never run cords through doorways or cover them with rugs or carpets.
- Protect Children and Pets: Keep light strands and electrical decorations out of reach of children and pets.
Kitchen Electrical Safety
The kitchen often becomes a hub of activity during the holidays. Keep these tips in mind:
- Stay Attentive: Focus on cooking and baking tasks to avoid accidents.
- Clean Cooking Areas: Keep stovetops and surrounding areas free of grease.
- Keep Combustibles Away: Avoid placing towels or potholders near the stove.
- Avoid Outlet Overload: Only plug one high-wattage appliance into each outlet.
- GFCI-Protected Outlets: Ensure outlets near sinks have GFCI protection.
- Fire Extinguisher: Always have a working fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.
Travel Safety Tips
If you’re traveling, especially by car, take precautions around utility poles and power lines:
- Stay in the Vehicle: If you collide with a utility pole, remain in the car unless it’s on fire.
- Downed Lines Are Dangerous: Treat all downed or low-hanging lines as energized and dangerous. Call 911 immediately.
- Safe Exit: If you must leave the vehicle due to fire, jump clear with your feet together, avoiding contact with the vehicle and ground simultaneously. Shuffle or “bunny hop” to safety.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a safe, festive, and worry-free holiday season!