The holidays are a festive time with cozy sweaters and gatherings with your loved ones. Decorative lights indoors and outdoors can put you in a holiday mood and brighten up your neighborhood. If you’re not careful with electrical wiring, however, your festivity can turn into a dreadful accident. The following electrician tips will help ensure safety for your family and home this year. 

5 Holiday Electrical Safety Tips

1. Inspect for Damages

Check for electrical hazards like loose wires, damaged cords, and cracked sockets when you take your decorations out of storage boxes or the packaging. To avoid fire risks and electric shock, replace these rather than attempt to repair them.

2. Read the Instructions

Not all decorations are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Read the manufacturer's instructions before putting up your lights and other electrical accessories.

Make sure you don't exceed the recommended wattage or connect more than three light strings. Ignoring these precautions puts your home at risk of fires and circuit breaker failure.

3. Don't Overload Your Outlets

In addition to connecting too many light strings, homeowners tend to overload their outlets while trying to maximize holiday cheer. Avoid this practice, as it can lead to overheating and ignite a fire. Spread your decorations throughout the home and use safe power strips.

4. Use Proper Tools

When installing Christmas lights, don't use staples or nails—these can damage the cords and expose the wiring. Instead, use clips specifically made to secure holiday lights.

5. Keep Extension Cords Away From Snow

Plug your outdoor electrical decorations into ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). This type of outlet—identified by the “test” and “reset” buttons—can detect ground fault and instantly shuts the power off to prevent electrical shocks. If you’re unsure of your outlet type or need one installed outside your home, ask an electrician to take a look.

Keep your holidays enjoyable and safe by ensuring your electrical systems are in optimal shape. Have them checked by the highly trained electricians at Arc Electric & Air Conditioning & Heating. For over 65 years, this locally owned and operated company has been providing high-quality solutions to the electrical and heating needs of clients in northern Kentucky and the greater Cincinnati, OH, area. Their licensed technicians use the latest tools for accomplishing jobs involving rewiring, fire alarm maintenance, and HVAC repairs. Visit their website to view their specials or call them at (859) 441-7161 to schedule an appointment.