Holiday Light Safety: Keep the Cheer Bright and Your Home Safe

The holidays are a time to light up your home and spread cheer—but it’s also the season when electrical fires are most common. Whether you’re decorating your tree, wrapping lights around the porch, or adding festive yard displays, a few precautions can keep your celebrations safe and bright.

1. Inspect Your Lights Before Hanging

Before plugging in your lights, check for frayed wires, cracked sockets, or loose connections. Replace any damaged strands—never try to repair broken bulbs with tape or glue.

2. Use the Right Type of Lights

Make sure your decorations are rated for where you’re using them. Outdoor lights are designed to withstand moisture and temperature changes, while indoor-only lights can short out when exposed to the elements.

3. Avoid Overloading Outlets

Plugging too many light strands into one outlet can overload the circuit. Use power strips with built-in surge protectors, and spread your decorations across different outlets to balance the load.

4. Turn Lights Off When You’re Away

Leaving holiday lights on overnight or when you’re not home can be risky. Set a timer or use smart plugs to automatically turn them off and save energy.

5. Keep Cords Clear of Heat Sources

Don’t run extension cords under rugs, near fireplaces, or over heaters. These spots can overheat cords and lead to electrical fires.

Bright Ideas for a Safe Holiday

A little planning can help your holiday displays shine safely all season long. If you need help adding new outdoor outlets, upgrading old wiring, or checking your electrical panel before decorating, E&A ELECTRIC LLC is here to help keep your home safe and merry.