The festive glow of holiday lights is an essential part of the season, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Faulty wiring or damaged lights cause hundreds of fires during the holidays every year and may pose an electrocution hazard to anyone walking by. If you’re putting up lights this season, the following tips from expert electricians will keep your celebration from becoming a disaster.

Do

Opt for LEDs.

The soft glow of traditional incandescent bulbs may have their own charm, but they generate a lot of heat that can ignite other decorations or dry Christmas trees. In addition to being extremely energy-efficient, LED lights also create very little heat, making them the safer choice.

Inspect every strand.

As you pull each strand of lights out of storage, inspect each of them closely for frayed wires, damaged insulation, or scorch marks. If anything looks suspicious, throw the strand out and replace it. Using old, damaged lights for one more season isn’t worth the risk.

Don’t

Overload extension cords.

Extension cords and power outlets can quickly overheat, so don’t plug too many things in at once. If you’re using power strips, go with models that have built-in surge protectors, and never plug one power electrical cord into another.

Mix incandescent and LED lights.

Traditional incandescent holiday lights are wired in series, with a constant level of power running through the entire string. LEDs don’t require as much electricity, so plugging them into a strand of incandescents can burn out the wiring, damage the bulbs, and potentially start a fire.

Whether your system needs an upgrade or you’re wiring a new house, you can rely on the electricians at Etheridge Electric Company Inc. for dedicated craftsmanship and guaranteed results. For over 45 years, they’ve been South Georgia’s electricians of choice, providing a wide range of services for homeowners throughout the area. Visit their website for a closer look at their services, or call (229) 794-2148 to speak with an electrician and request an estimate.