This month’s blog features five holiday lighting tips to keep your family safe this holiday season. Did you know that one out of three Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical issues? According, the U.S. Fire Administration that’s the reality each holiday season. This information should serve as a stark warning to homeowners in the Denver metro area, especially to those who love to light up their homes with twinkling lights.

Follow these 5-holiday lighting tips to keep your family safe this holiday season:

#1 Avoid Overloading

If you plan to put up lots of lights this year, this electrical tip is for you. Do NOT overload extension cords, and make sure light strands are distributed through multiple cords. Remember, your extension cord has a wattage limit. Do NOT exceed the wattage limit. Exceeding its wattage rating could cause overheating and might put your home at grave risk. Hire a licensed electrician if you need additional outlets installed to prevent overloads.

#2 Check Labels

Christmas lights should be examined and verified by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) to ensure safety and prevent fire or electrical hazards in your home. UL is a third-party organization that sets standards for different product categories and tests them to ensure they meet the safety requirements. Always check the labels and purchase ONLY the UL-labeled decorative lights.

#3 Use Indoor/Outdoor Lights Appropriately

It is important to note that Christmas lights come in two types—outdoor and indoor lights. When you try to hang lights outside your home, make sure they are designed specifically for that purpose.

#4 Give Your Lights a Break

It’s not wise to leave Christmas lights on at all times. Yes, they may look joyful and alive, but they can also cause a dramatic rise in your energy bills and, worse, safety issues when left on for a long time. Unplug all the lights before you go to sleep or when you leave for a holiday vacation.

#5 Choose Fire-Resistant Trees

Fire-resistant artificial trees can resist burning much longer than conventional trees. Choosing the right material for your Christmas decorations will help keep your holiday celebrations a safer one. So be sure to buy only a fire-resistant tree and safe-to-use holiday materials for your decorations.

Christmas will be as holly-jolly as you expect when you celebrate safely. Follow these electrical safety tips to keep your holiday season merry and bright.

High West Electric is based in Denver, CO, and serves the entire metro area. Our customer service-based approach ensures that each client enjoys the process from installation to the end product – no matter the size of the job. Our goal is to be YOUR electrician and offer an experience that goes Beyond the Wires. Visit our website to learn more. The team at High West Electric wishes you a wonderful holiday season!