Tips to Decorate Safely for Halloween and the Holidays

Holiday decorations are a method of self-expression and celebrating certain times of the year. The upcoming Halloween and holiday season has become more popular because of the available holiday lights and decor. Some people spend as much time decorating for the holidays as they do celebrating. However, it’s crucial to decorate for the holidays safely to prevent fire hazards and electrical issues. In this article, discover tips to ensure a good holiday season without unexpected electrical problems and fire hazards.

Step #1: Inspect Everything Before Decorating

When the decorations are retrieved from whatever storage area they have been hiding, whether attic, basement, crawl space, or garage, they should be thoroughly inspected. The forgotten storage corners of the house often have uninvited guests, including pests such as rodents and insects that can damage the electrical wires even if they were working perfectly well last year. A homeowner should check all parts of lights and electric decor for damage, including the following:
  • Plug and cord
  • Lightbulbs
  • Moving parts
  • Wiring
Ensuring these parts work beforehand and aren’t damaged can prevent safety hazards and fire. Broken bulbs, loose wiring, and more can be dangerous to both people and property.

Step #2: Avoid Overloading Circuits

An overloaded circuit, where things are being used, can also be a fire hazard. Electrical systems are the third leading cause of house fires in the country. When plugging in decorations, homeowners must be conscious of a few things, such as spreading out the electrical load to multiple circuits to avoid an overload. Additionally, electronic decor and lighting should only be used outdoors when they are made for outdoor use. This means that they can withstand moisture and the elements safely. While extension cords are valuable tools, they are a tripping hazard. They should also be examined for wear and tear and should not be used if visible damage is detected. Use extension cords sparingly, as they can easily cause an overloaded circuit.

Step #3: Don’t Leave Candles and Lights Unattended

While problems can happen at any time, they are more likely to be disastrous if no one knows about them. This is why lights and electronic decor should be turned off when no one is home or the household is asleep. The same applies to candles, which should be extinguished when no one can attend to them. Even safer than ensuring candles are put out is getting battery-powered LED candles that give off a pleasing light and little to no heat.

About The Bosworth Company

The Bosworth Company has background-checked technicians ready to provide workmanship with 100% satisfaction guaranteed. They are also licensed experts who use the latest technology for better service. Call today for holiday lighting installation services in Midland, TX!
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