Friday, November 18, 2011

Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

Inside the house 

- Select trees that are fresh and do not contain dry or brown limbs. Keep the tree stand filled with water.

- Avoid placing trees or other live greenery near heat sources, such as fireplaces, space heaters or vents.

- Ensure that artificial trees have been tested and labeled as fire resistant.

- Check holiday lighting packages to determine the maximum number of strands that may be linked together safely. Always follow the manufacturer's directions.

- Inspect light strands to ensure there are no electrical problems or damage to the wiring before using.

- Avoid connecting light sets with different numbers of bulbs as they may have different electrical requirements.

- Don't place cords underneath rugs, furniture or other appliances. Doing so can cause cords to overheat or become frayed, possibly resulting in a fire. Also, take care when routing cords so that they do not become a tripping hazard.

- Check all extension cords for fraying, cracks or loose connections. When in doubt, replace old extension cords.

- Don't bunch lights too closely together. Doing so can generate excessive heat that can melt insulation and expose live wires.

- Turn off decorative lighting when you go to bed or leave the house.

Outside the house

- Use only lights that are specifically designed for outdoor use.

- When installing lights, use caution under overhanging power lines, especially when using a ladder. Scope the area, including the ground and overhead, before installation.

- Never staple or nail through extension cords or holiday lighting wires, as doing so could damage wires and insulation, resulting in electric shock or fire.

- Always use outdoor-rated extension cords and make sure that the current rating (in amps or "A") of the device you are plugging in does not exceed the rating on the extension cord. Overloading extension cords can cause overheating of the cord.

- Ensure that wires and lighting are not placed in areas prone to standing water or flooding.

- Check all extension cords and light strands for fraying, cracks or loose connections as they can result in electric shock or fire.

- Turn off all outdoor decorative lighting when you go to bed or leave the house.



www.desertlighting.com

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