This time of year, holiday lights may be hung from the chimney with care, but are you doing everything you can to make sure the rest of your home is safe?
It’s unfortunate to see, but every year there’s inevitably one story in the news that talks about the dangers of holiday decorations, particularly when it comes to Christmas trees.
First off, you absolutely want to make sure you’re not overloading your circuits. Remember that scene in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation when all the wires are plugged into the same outlets? (pictured above) Yeah, you don’t want that.
Now of course, over the years holiday decorations, specifically decorative light bulbs, have been redesigned in such a way that overheating is hardly a concern. That being said, you still don’t want to have endless extension cords and outlets pushing to their maximum ability, especially when you’re not home.
For holiday purists who insist on natural pine trees, remember to do your part and ensure the tree is not drying out. Replace the water in the pan regularly, and routinely check the tree for dry patches throughout the holiday season.
Finally, consider whether you want to keep your decorations running while you’re not home. If so, go ahead and double check to make sure the bulbs or decorations aren’t pressing up against curtains for prolonged periods of time, or any sort of “fake snow” or cotton.
Essentially, the main thing you want to consider is whether or not the lights will heat up and if they are in close proximity to something dry and flammable.
Stay safe this holiday season.