Top 6 Holiday Safety Tips

With the holidays in full swing and the Christmas lights all aglow, Jackson Total Service would like to help make sure that you and your family remain safe during the holiday season. During the holidays many families across Southwest Florida enjoy decorating their homes with holiday lighting, fresh Christmas trees, candles, décor and more. While many of these decorations are very pleasing to the eye, there are some electrical safety hazards to keep in mind during your festivities.  Below are the top 6 holiday safety tips to help keep your holidays safe.

Holiday Electrical Safety Tips

1. Choose the Correct Lighting – Holiday lighting comes in a variety of choices from strings of incandescent lights, LED lights, net lights, icicle lights, rope lights and more. When choosing your lights, make sure to select the correct lighting for the job. Holiday lighting and decorations are rated for indoor and outdoor use. When purchasing lights always read the package instructions and do not exceed the recommended wattage.
2. Electrical Outlets & Extension Cords – Do not overload electrical outlets or use damaged extension cords. Overloaded outlets and damaged cords are a common cause for fires during the holidays.
3. Strings of Lights – In most cases, no more than three strings of incandescent lights should be connected. Connecting more than three strings may cause a fuse to blow which can cause a fire. Read the package instructions for recommendations.
4. Hang Holiday Lights Properly – When decorating your home with holiday lighting, make sure that you secure your lights and decorations properly. Staples and nails can damage the lighting cords which is a fire hazard. Use the proper clips to hang all lighting and decorations.
5. Watch All Children & Pets – While holiday lighting is very pleasing to look at, it may look very inviting to young children and pets. Keep an eye on all children and pets at all times, and remember to turn off all lighting when you are away from the house and during bedtime.
6. Keep your Tree Watered – Dry trees are a big fire hazard. If you have a live tree, make sure to keep it watered and fresh.

Holiday Fire Facts between 2011 -2015 from National Fire Protection Association

• One out of every four Christmas tree fires is caused by electrical problems.
• On average, one of every thirty-two reported Christmas tree fires results in a death compared to an average of one death per 143 total reported home fires.
• Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in two of every five (40%) of home Christmas tree fires.
• One-fifth (19%) of the home decoration fires occurred in December.

When it comes to electricity, your safety and the safety of your family should be your top priority. While decorating during the holidays is enjoyable, when electricity is involved, it can be dangerous. It only takes one spark to cause a fire. Jackson Total Service cares about the safety of you and your family. Use caution and be safe with your holiday lighting. If you find that you are in need of electrical service or repairs, contact the office of Jackson Total Service.