The holidays are a time for cozy sweaters and hot cocoa, family gatherings, and decorations. But while everyone loves to get festive with lights, candles, and evergreen garlands, it’s important to remember that these can all present several safety hazards without the proper precautions. Read on for easy tips for holiday decorating safety.
Don’t Overload Your Outlets
Don’t plug too many strands of lights into one socket, or it could cause an electrical fire. Read the instructions on the lights’ packaging to find out how many strings can be connected to each other safely.
Test Your Lights for Holiday Decorating Safety
Before you hang up any string lights, make sure they are in good condition and double-check them for frayed wires or broken bulbs. If they have seen better days, discard them rather than take a risk with your home’s safety.
Keep Candles Away From Flammable Objects
Candles are a great way to build holiday ambiance, but keeping them out of reach for children and pets is important. Ensure they’re not placed near flammable objects like curtains or furniture, as this could be an accident waiting to happen. Place candles on sturdy surfaces like a plate or tray that won’t catch fire easily.
Keep Holiday Trees Watered
Real holiday trees can be a beautiful addition to your decorations, but they also need to remain hydrated so they don’t become a fire hazard. Keep an eye on the water levels in its stand and make sure it stays full throughout the holidays.
Avoid Overheating Your Decorations for Holiday Decorating Safety
Certain types of holiday decorations, such as incandescent or halogen lights, can get very hot when they are on for long periods of time. Keep these away from combustible materials like paper and fabric to avoid a potential fire. Additionally, be sure not to cover your decorations in blankets or fabric, as this can block ventilation and cause overheating.
Decorating your home for the holidays is a fun activity that will get you into the spirit of the season, but safety needs to remain a top priority. Following these tips will keep your home merry and bright – and safe! – so you can enjoy your holidays with peace of mind.
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