With the holiday season just around the corner, many families are starting to string up their favorite Christmas lights. Though beautiful and festive, these lights can potentially cause safety hazards when not used correctly. To avoid the need for emergency home electrical repair, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind.

Do:

Use LED lights.

LED lights produce less heat than incandescents, which makes them less of a fire risk when strung around a Christmas tree or on a roof. Additionally, they use less electricity to run, so this switch can help you save on energy bills throughout the holidays.

Fasten lights securely.

Indoors, keep lights out of reach of pets or young children who could tug or even chew on the cords. Outdoors, use light clips to attach them securely to your roof or siding so they don’t go flying in a windstorm and cause electrical issues.

Don’t:

Connect more than three strands to a single outlet.

Wattage can vary among different types of light strands, but these products are generally not designed to all share the same outlet. This can cause wires to melt, which can lead to fires or the need for home electrical repair. Stick to three strands per outlet or extension cord, or use a power strip that will automatically shut down if the wattage becomes too much.

Use outdoor and indoor lights interchangeably.

Most Christmas lights are labeled for either indoor or outdoor use. Those made for the outdoors have insulated wires, so they can withstand exposure. Indoor lights could become electrical hazards if left outside. Avoid these problems by reading the labels carefully.

If you run into any electrical issues this holiday season, contact the professionals at AA Electric. The team of highly trained electricians has served Honolulu since 1947 with home electrical repairs and installations. Visit the company’s website to see a full list of services. To request assistance, call (808) 841-4131.