1 of 5
Only use holiday lights that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory. Check the light label; most lights are designed to connect no more than three strands.
Source: Sara Peterson
2 of 5
Don’t overload outlets during the holidays.
Source: Sara Peterson
3 of 5
Inspect lighting wires periodically to make sure they are intact and not warm to the touch.
Source: Sara Peterson
4 of 5
Replace any strands that show signs of damage, such as bare or frayed wires, broken bulbs, or loose connections. Faulty lights can send an electrical charge through a tree and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with a branch.
Source: Sara Peterson
5 of 5
Review all instructions and safety guidelines included with new products before you allow the child to use it.
Source: Sara Peterson
Before your family puts up a tree or hangs the stockings this holiday season, start a new tradition. Put safety at the top of your list. Too often the twinkling lights people see are on top of a fire truck or ambulance—the result of holiday accidents that could have been prevented.
Trees and lights are danger-prone holiday decorations. According to the United States Fire Administration, Christmas trees start an average of 260 house fires each season, resulting in more than $16 million in property damage. Another 150 house fires are sparked by holiday lights and decorative lighting, costing $8.9 million in damage.
Unsafe practices while putting up decorations are often to blame for injuries. Nearly 6,000 individuals visit emergency rooms each year for falls that occur. Four thousand more are treated for injuries associated with extension cords.
Gifts trigger injuries, too. Toys used for unintended purposes or without proper supervision can lead to electrical shocks, burns and injuries, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
When it is time to deck your halls, take these precautions to ensure the safety of you, your family and holiday guests:
TREES
Real or artificial, short or tall, Christmas trees are often the culprits for danger. Incorporate these safety guidelines in your decorating routine:
- Make sure an artificial tree is labeled “fire resistant.” Be aware that “fire resistant” does not mean “fireproof.” Exercise caution when it comes to your tree.
- Make sure a live tree is fresh and green. Dry, brittle limbs and shedding needles are breeding grounds for sparks. Water a live tree regularly to prevent it from drying out.
- Place any type of tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, vents and radiators.
LIGHTS
Festive lights give homes a magical glow both inside and out. When decorating this season, a few simple safety tips can keep your spirits bright.
- Do not overload electrical outlets. Most lights are designed to connect no more than three strands. Inspect the wires periodically to make sure they are intact and not warm to the touch.
- Never leave lights on overnight or when no one is home.
- Only use lights that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.
- Replace any strands that show signs of damage, such as bare or frayed wires, broken bulbs or loose connections. Faulty lights can send an electrical charge through a tree and electrocute anyone who comes in contact with a branch.
GIFTS
The thrill of holiday presents is quickly forgotten when a gift leads to injury. Here are a few suggestions to keep children safe:
- Select gifts that are age appropriate for the recipient. Toys recommended for older children pose too many risks for younger children to use safely.
- Educate children on electrical safety when using any new toy or product that requires an electrical connection.
- Review all instructions and safety guidelines included with new products before you allow the child to use it. This ensures the safety of the child and protects the integrity of the product.
Make sure safety ranks at the top of your “to do” list this holiday season. Like the old Christmas song says, there is no place like home for the holidays—especially when your family is safe and your home is filled with good cheer.