There’s no doubt that the joys of holiday merriment are on everyone’s minds. As the days get shorter, homeowners shift their focus to the excitement of the season and the promise of a new year. Rarely do they stop to think about the potential dangers lurking about the house. Electrical safety must always be kept in mind, especially during the holidays. Here are a few important reminders to keep the holidays merry and bright.
Start Decorating Simple Inspections
Decorations around the home create a warm and cozy atmosphere, but homeowners must recognize the potential dangers, too. String lights and other electrical holiday decorations cause an average of 150 fires every year. Homeowners should carefully check any decorations before using them, only use lights with a fuse in the plug, and be sure that only outdoor-certified lights go out against the elements.
Some issues to look for during inspection include:
- Broken, loose, or frayed wires
- Cracked sockets
- Broken Bulbs
Homeowners should also be sure to use extension cords rated appropriately for the planned use, never string cords through windows or doors, and only use outlets with ground-fault circuit interrupters or GFCIs. An experienced electrician can replace old outlets easily.
Stay Powered Up With Fresh Batteries
There is no doubt that smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors save lives. Smoke detectors use a loud alarm to alert occupants or wake up those sleeping in the unfortunate event of a fire or smoke in the home. The National Fire Protection Association reports that fires can double in size every minute, so every second counts.
Every house should have a smoke detector on every level, especially near bedrooms. Similarly, a CO detector is designed to measure the colorless, odorless, dangerous gas. Homeowners must be vigilant in changing the batteries in these detectors every six months. A good reminder is to change batteries whenever clocks are set forward or back, or every Spring and Fall. Put a reminder on the calendar right now.
Always Pull the Plug
The stocking may be hung with care, and the lights are meticulously placed, but all electrical decor must be disconnected when left unattended. No matter what type of lights adorn the tree, mantle, or banister, they must always be unplugged at night or when the house is left unoccupied. This is especially important when everyone is nestled snug in their beds!
This is vital when the holiday tree has been cut down and brought home or taken out of storage and put together. For live trees, making sure the tree is properly watered is often the last thing on a homeowner’s mind during the holidays. The combination of a dry tree and overheated lights has the potential for disaster. Homeowners should make sure their tree is properly hydrated by checking the water often.
Alternatively, homeowners may want to consider an artificial tree made from fire-resistant materials. Of course, fire-resistant does not mean fireproof. Synthetic materials, even fire-resistant ones, can still become fuel for a fire.
Homeowners with questions or concerns regarding electrical safety around the holidays or any time of year should consult a licensed, trustworthy electrician, or else risk electrical accidents.
About Point Loma Electric and Plumbing
Point Loma Electric and Plumbing has been serving homeowners in San Diego, CA for over 30 years. Their fully licensed and insured team of professional technicians deliver five-star service every time with a “done right or we make it right” guarantee. Homeowners can enjoy peace of mind this holiday season with an electrical safety inspection by Point Loma Electric and Plumbing. Call for quality electrical services!
