How To Light Up Your House Safely This Holiday Season

NC – Everyone loves decorating for the holidays, but there are a number of safety tips to keep in mind when lighting up your home. Test your knowledge with the following statements and learn to separate fact from fiction when buying and installing lights:

Fact or Fiction: All holiday lights can be used indoors and outdoors.

Fiction: Lights are specifically rated for either indoor or outdoor use. Look for this information on the package, and check for a recognized certification mark before you buy. The same is true for extension cords.

Fact or Fiction: Outdoor lights can be plugged into any type of outlet.

Fiction: If you’re installing lights outside, be sure your outlets are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). GFCIs protect you from an electric shock wherever you use electrical products in damp and wet conditions.

Fact or Fiction: You should always look up and look out when stringing lights outside.

Fact: Before you start, take a walk around your property and be aware of any overhead powerlines. Keep your ladder a safe distance away – at least three metres. You could be electrocuted even if you don’t touch the wire. Use the proper clips to secure lights and decorations, since nails and staples can damage the cords.

Light up safely this holiday season to avoid shocking surprises, both indoors or outdoors. Additional guidance and information is available online at esasafe.com.