One of our favorite times of the year is when it’s finally time to start pulling out the holiday decorations. There is just something about a fully decorated home that brings warmth, love and cheer to even the gloomiest of days. But, as the holiday season gets into full swing, it’s important to know the dangers associated with decorating as well.

 

While holiday decorations can be fun and beautiful, they can also present fire hazards. To keep your home and family safe, we’ve gathered some useful decorating tips and tricks.

 

LIGHTS AND DECOR:

 

• Only buy electrical decorations that have a UL rating on the label, which indicates that they have been tested for safe use.

 

• Follow all installation and usage instructions for lighting decorations to ensure that you are not increasing your chance of starting a fire.

 

• Inspect new and used lights before using them and discard any that have cracks, exposed wires or loose connections.

 

• Do not connect more than three sets of lights to an extension cord at one time.

 

• Plug outside lighting only into a ground fault circuit interrupting (GFCI) outlet, as this will safeguard the outlet from any interaction with water.

 

• Do not secure outside lights with staples or nails, and avoid placing indoor extension cords under carpeting, rugs and furniture.

 

• Unplug lighting decorations before going to bed and leaving the house.

 

• If you’ll be hanging decorations in a high place and/or using a ladder, be sure to decorate with a partner who can help ensure your safety.

 

FIREPLACE AND CANDLES:

 

• Do not burn your wrapping paper. Not only can they release toxic fumes, paper can catch fire and float around quickly causing a flash fire.

 

• Keep all decorations at a safe distance from the fireplace if you’ll be using it. (i.e. do not place garland on the fireplace!)

 

• Ensure all candles are stable and in a secure base to avoid tipping over and starting a fire.

 

 

CHRISTMAS TREES:

 

• If you set up a Christmas tree, place the tree in a sturdy stand at least 3 feet away from heat sources.

 

• Water your tree regularly to keep it hydrated and less flammable.

 

• Only keep your Christmas tree for two weeks, because it will dry out quickly and can become highly flammable.

 

• Consider purchasing a fire-resistant fake tree instead of a real tree.

 

• Avoid glass / breakable ornaments, especially if small children will be around the tree.

 

It’s also important to note that if you blow a fuse while decorating, discard the faulty light string or decoration and replace the blown fuse. If the fuse blows again, contact an electrician to investigate the problem further. This might indicate a more serious wiring problem in your home.

 

Have more concerns about your home’s safety? Contact us today to discuss your homeowners insurance policy and what it may or may not cover.

 

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