More than 50% of adults plan to hang holiday lights this year, according to the safety council. But if they aren't handled properly, holiday lights can create fire hazards and electrical shock risks. Nothing can put a damper on the Holiday spirit like a house fire, please take the following precautions to avoid this risk.
- Inspect holiday lights and extension cords before decorating. Replace any that are fraying or damaged.
- Check for red or green UL (underwriters laboratories) marks on all light strings and extension cords. The green holographic UL mark means the light string should only be used indoors. The red holographic mark indicates the light strings can be used both indoors as well as outdoors.
- String no more than three standard-size sets of lights together.
- Unplug all holiday lights when you go to sleep or leave home.
- Roll up excess electrical cords and keep them away from high-traffic areas. Do not run electrical cords under rugs.
- Use safety caps to keep children from putting things in outlets.
- Consider using LED lights, which are cool to the touch and are up to 80% more efficient than incandescent lights.
For more holiday safety tips please visit www.UL.com.
Courtesy of Tory Holman - Commercial Insurance Division
