Put safety first this holiday season! Decorations add to the festive spirit of the season but can also increase the risk of fire and injury if not used properly. Fortunately, when it comes to electricity and safety, there are many steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Safe decorating tips

1. Lights are rated for indoor or outdoor use. Read the package instructions and never exceed the recommended wattage.
2. Buy decorations with the mark of an accredited certification agency.
3. No more than three light strings can be safely connected together in most cases — read manufacturers’ instructions for directions.
4. Make sure bulbs don’t touch supply cords, wires, cloth, paper, or any material.
5. Use the proper clips for securing lights and decorations. Staples and nails can damage electrical cords!
6. Check for overhead powerlines before using a ladder outside or when you’re hanging lights on trees.
7. Watch that children don’t put electrical decorations or cords in their mouths.
8. Keep an eye on pets – they may chew or damage electrical cords.
9. Turn off holiday lights and decorations when you leave the house or go to bed.
10. Holiday decorations aren’t designed for year-round use and can deteriorate over time. Take them down when the holidays are over.

Advice for extension cords, plugs and outlets

• Inspect and replace damaged electrical products.
• Avoid plugging too many decorations into an outlet. Overloaded circuits can start a fire.
• Use GFCI-protected receptacles to protect you from shock when plugging in outdoors.
• Make sure your outdoor receptacle has a special cover to help protect against the elements even when a cord is left plugged in.
• Never remove the third prong on plugs — this “grounding pin” prevents shock in the event of electrical equipment failure.
• Don’t run extension cords under carpets, through doorways, or in places where they can be damaged by furniture.
• Keep outdoor connections above ground and out of puddles; don’t run them across driveways or walkways.

Knowing the potential hazards and how to minimize risk will help prevent fires and electrical shocks. It will also give you and your family peace of mind this holiday season.

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday from the NB Power team.

Source: Electrical Safety Authority