Putting up Christmas lights around your house is one of the best things about the season. The lights’ shimmer and glow are fun, but putting them up can be dangerous if safety isn’t a top priority. You can have a great time without accidents or damage if you plan ahead and are careful. Finding more about the author at this page!
Your ladder should be the first thing you do. The ancient, wobbly one in the garage isn’t a good choice. Always use a strong ladder that is level and, if you can, have someone nearby to hold it stable. A lot of holiday injuries arise because people think, “I’ll be fine,” and then they wind up with a cast instead of a fun display.
Next, check the strands of light before you put them up. Put them out and look for broken sockets, frayed wires, or burned-out parts. Not only do faulty strands look bad, they can also start a fire. It’s safer to replace a set that looks worn or broken than to try to fix it.
Another important thing is how to manage power. Even with LEDs that use less energy, plugging too many things into one outlet might trip breakers or cause other electrical problems. Don’t use weak extension cords that can’t handle being outside. Instead, choose heavy-duty wires that are approved for outdoor use, and if you can, disperse your lights across more than one circuit for extra protection.
The weather should also affect when you decorate. Trying to hang lights when it’s icy, windy, or rainy is unsafe and not needed. Waiting for dry, clear weather not only makes installation safer, but it also keeps moisture from causing problems with electricity.
Finally, use the right hardware to mount it. Don’t use nails, staples, or duct tape, which can hurt your home and make it less safe. Outdoor light clips are cheap, simple to apply, and keep strands in place without hurting your roof, gutters, or siding. Plus, they make it a lot easier to pull down in January.
Holiday lights should make your season brighter, not send you to the hospital. You can enjoy the holiday lights outside while being safe and warm inside if you prepare ahead, use the correct tools, and work carefully.