Christmas is widely regarded as the most wonderful time of the year, and for most people, this is indeed the case. However, it can also come with higher risks for homeowners and apartment dwellers, often associated with Christmas lights, whether used indoors or outdoors. Today, we’re sharing some essential Christmas light safety tips to help ensure your holiday season is filled with happiness and less stress. Take a look at our list, check it twice, and make sure that your Christmas lights play nice, ’cause Santa Claus is coming to town.
1. Inspect Christmas Lights Before Hanging
It can be exciting to put up the lights on the house, especially if you have kids. However, like any electronic device, you should inspect it thoroughly before installation. Ensure that none of the lights are blown or broken, and inspect for any fraying or discoloration of the wires. If you suspect anything, get rid of that strand. There’s no sense in taking a risk over a $10 line of lights! If you deem them safe, plug them in to make sure all lights are in working condition.
2. Check for Recalled Lights
Reasons for recalls can range from overheating and inefficiencies to fire hazards, so you must check to make sure your lights aren’t on any recall lists. Lights of any age may be recalled due to fire or shock risks. Therefore, always check Health Canada’s recall database. It continues to happen, year after year, so be sure to check online for any possible recalls on your Christmas lights, especially if they’re old.
3. Use Christmas Lights for Their Intended Purpose
Indoor-only lights should be for the tree only! Indoor lights aren’t capable of withstanding the cold and snow. As such, they often cause sparks and shocks through their limited wire coverings, which can blow fuses, cause shocks, or, at worst, start fires. Outdoor lights should also be taken down in January, as they are generally designed for limited outdoor exposure and are not suitable for year-round use.
4. Set Lights on a Timer or Smart Plug
Turning out the lights isn’t just about saving money; it’s about being safe. Always remember to turn off the outdoor (and indoor) Christmas lights before you head to bed. Now, if you enjoy a little more Christmas cheer, consider setting your lights on a timer or using a smart plug that allows you to schedule a specific time.
5. Avoid Overloading Circuits
Plugging too many light strands into a single outlet or power strip can cause overheating or blown fuses. A good rule of thumb: No more than three standard light strands per extension cord. Check your electrical panel’s load capacity before you plug in large displays.
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet is a specific type of plug that shuts off power at the outlet (rather than the entire house) when an electrical trip or fault occurs. This is especially important when deciding where to plug in your Christmas lights, such as whether it’s an outdoor plug or located inside the garage. Why? Damp areas pose a higher risk of electric shock, but a GFCI outlet can help mitigate this risk.
6. Upgrade from Traditional Bulbs to LED Christmas Lights
The cost of LED Christmas lights has decreased significantly over the past couple of years, making them a more affordable option than traditional lights. So if you’re still holding onto those 1970s classic candle-like lights, consider getting a new set. Not only are they much safer (as they don’t warm), but they will save you money on electrical costs.
7. Keep Similar Light Types Together
If you insist on using older light strands, don’t plug them into the same strand as an LED strand. Because LEDs require significantly less electrical power than incandescent bulbs, their cords may not be able to handle the draw that incandescent strands do. As such, put them on their own plug to increase Christmas light safety.
8. Have Someone Secure the Ladder While Hanging Lights
This one seems to be a no-brainer, yet many patients end up in the hospital every year during the holidays because of fall-related injuries. Also, use a wooden ladder, if possible, instead of a metal one to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
9. Secure Your Lights with Clips or Hooks
When hanging Christmas lights, it is essential to secure them to a stable surface. Staples and nails are no longer considered safe, as wires can rub against them and become pierced, increasing the risk of fire. It’s recommended to use hooks or mounting clips, which are inexpensive and much safer (check out Canadian Tire or Amazon).
10. Ensure You’ve Chosen the Correct Extension Cord
The extension cord you use to connect your Christmas lights to an electrical outlet is just as important as the type of Christmas lights you’ve chosen (if not more.) Ensure that you use a cord specifically designed for outdoor use, not an indoor-only cord. If you don’t have one, it is worth the investment to purchase one. An added safety tip is to keep them dry and off the ground!
11. Carefully Place Extension Cords
Avoid running extension cords across driveways, sidewalks, or high-traffic areas. These can easily become tripping hazards or get damaged by moisture and snow. When possible, elevate cords slightly or secure them with outdoor cord covers. Furthermore, It might be tempting to thread an extension cord through a window or door gap, but this can pinch the cord and damage the insulation — increasing the risk of shock or fire. Instead, use weatherproof outdoor outlets or power safely from inside using specialized flat extension cords made for windows.
12. Be Mindful of Pets and Children
Keep cords and lights out of reach of pets and young children, who may be tempted to chew or tug on them. Damaged cords can result in shocks or fires. Consider wrapping cords in protective covers or securing them behind furniture or barriers.
13. Watch Out for Overhead Powerlines
When decorating your roof or tall trees, always look for overhead power lines. Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet and never use metal ladders or poles near electrical sources.
14. Store Christmas Lights Properly After the Holidays
When the season ends, take down your lights carefully and store them in a cool, dry place. Avoid tangling them or wrapping them too tightly, as this can cause wire fatigue. Label boxes to make next year’s setup faster and safer.
15. Stay Weather-Aware
Avoid hanging or removing lights during snowstorms, rain, or icy conditions. Wet surfaces and ladders can increase the risk of falls or electrocution. Wait for a clear day or ask for help if needed.
16. Hire a Professional to Hang Christmas Lights for You
Nowadays, you can hire someone to do just about any job. More recently, people have been offering to hang your Christmas lights for a fee. Companies, such as beyondyourreach.ca, will come to your house and take this one item off your Christmas to-do list. If you’d prefer someone local, check out your neighbourhood Facebook group or listings around your area.
There are many other ways to keep Christmas light safety in mind, but these cover the basics. Overall, we always recommend using your best judgment to avoid future home insurance claims. If ever in doubt, don’t take the risk! If you do have a home insurance claim to submit, contact your isure broker today.
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