Holiday Lights

Before Hanging Holiday Lights

  • Check for Fraying – When you remove your holiday lights from storage, be sure and check the cords to make sure they do not have any fraying or other obvious damage.  If you discover damaged strings of lights, throw them away.   Hanging lights with damaged cords can lead to an electrical short that can potentially lead to a fire.

  • Choose Locations Carefully – Avoid hanging holiday lights near any item that poses a potential fire hazard, such as candles, space heaters, fireplaces, etc. Make sure bulbs aren't too close to loose paper or any other flammable materials that could present a safety hazard. 

  • Use as Directed – There is a big difference between indoor holiday lights and outdoor holiday lights. Before hanging lights, make sure that you are using the fixtures only in the environment in which they were designed to be used.

  • Verify Proper Rating – Bargain lights aren't a good deal if they pose a fire hazard.  Only use lights that have been tested and rated by Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) or Intertek (ETL Semko). Strings of lights that have a safety rating are clearly marked, both on the packaging and with labels attached to the electrical cords.

  • Hang Carefully - Never use tacks, staples, or nails to hang up your holiday light display. Instead, use insulated holders designed especially for this purpose.

Once the Lights are in Place

  • Select Extension Cords Wisely – Be sure you use a sufficient quantity and length of grounded extension cords for the amount of the lights you plan to use. Do not overload extension cords with more wattage than they are designed to accommodate.  Also make sure that any extension cords you are planning to use outside are rated for exterior use.

  • Place Extension Cords Properly - See that cords are placed so as to avoid posing a tripping hazard.

  • Turn Lights Off When Away – Do not leave holiday lights on when your house is unattended or when everyone in the home is asleep. In the event that a problem develops, it's important that someone be on hand and alert to be able to react quickly to avoid damage, a serious fire, and or injuries.

  • Bulb Replacement – When bulbs burn out, it's important to replace them right away. It's dangerous to have light strings plugged in with empty sockets. Be sure that the replacement bulbs you select are the correct wattage.