The holiday season will soon be upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the joy of bright, colorful lights and festive decorations to get us in the spirit. However, as beautiful as these displays can be, they can also pose risks if not installed and maintained correctly. To ensure your holiday decorations are as safe as they are stunning, here are some key safety tips to keep in mind, along with how our team at Shockwave Generators & Electric can help you safeguard your home this season.
1. Avoid Overloading Circuits and Breakers
One of the most common holiday electrical hazards is overloading circuits. While it may be tempting to plug multiple strings of lights into one outlet, this can easily lead to tripped breakers or even a fire hazard. Each outlet in your home has a limit to how much it can handle, and Christmas lights, inflatable decorations, and other electrical items quickly add up.
- Tip: Use a dedicated circuit for your outdoor holiday lighting whenever possible, and avoid chaining multiple extension cords together.
- Upgrade Option: If your breaker trips frequently or if you’re considering a larger holiday display, a panel upgrade might be a good idea. Shockwave Generators & Electric can inspect your panel to ensure it’s up to date and recommend upgrades if needed.
2. Use Proper Outdoor Lighting and Cords
Holiday lights and decorations often end up outside, exposed to the elements. It’s essential to use lights, extension cords, and plugs rated for outdoor use to avoid shock or fire hazards.
- Tip: Check for an outdoor safety rating on all lights and extension cords you use outside. If in doubt, it’s always better to invest in a new, weatherproof product than risk using something that could short-circuit in the rain.
- Safety Inspection: Not sure if your outdoor outlets are GFCI-protected? Shockwave Generators & Electric can inspect your outlets and wiring to confirm they’re safe, especially in high-moisture environments.
3. Inspect Your Lights and Decorations for Damage
Before you start hanging up last year’s lights, take the time to inspect them for signs of wear and tear. Cracked bulbs, frayed wires, or damaged plugs can lead to sparks, shocks, or worse. Even new lights can sometimes have manufacturing defects, so give each strand a thorough once-over.
- Tip: Replace any damaged strands or bulbs, and avoid “fixing” broken wires with tape or glue, as this can compromise their safety.
- Professional Repairs: If you notice repeated issues with lights or outlets around your home, it could signal a deeper electrical issue. Contact Shockwave Generators & Electric to address these concerns safely and professionally.
4. Take Extra Precautions with Ladders and Outdoor Installations
Putting up lights often requires using a ladder or reaching high places. When working around power lines or on the roof, always use a wooden or fiberglass ladder, as metal ladders can conduct electricity.
- Tip: Try to work during daylight hours, ensuring clear visibility. Keep lights and extension cords away from walkways or places where they could pose a tripping hazard.
- Electrical Safety Check: If you’re adding significant outdoor lighting or decorations, consider a safety inspection. Our team at Shockwave Generators & Electric can evaluate your setup to make sure everything is up to code and safe for use.
5. Set Timers and Use Smart Technology to Manage Your Lights
With so much going on during the holidays, it’s easy to forget to turn off lights. Using timers or smart outlets is a convenient way to manage your holiday lighting while preventing overheating or prolonged electrical use.
- Tip: Set timers to automatically turn off lights during daylight hours or late at night. This saves energy and reduces the risk of overheating.
- Energy Efficiency Consultation: Shockwave Generators & Electric offers consultations to help you set up energy-efficient systems for your holiday lighting, so you can enjoy a festive display without a hefty electric bill.
6. Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection Before the Holidays
For ultimate peace of mind this holiday season, consider scheduling an electrical safety inspection. Our licensed electricians at Shockwave Generators & Electric can check for outdated wiring, potential hazards, and areas that may need repair or upgrading before the extra electrical demand of the holidays.
- Panel Upgrade Consideration: If your home’s electrical panel is old or frequently overloaded, upgrading to a modern panel can ensure safe power distribution during the holiday season and beyond.
Wishing You a Safe and Bright Holiday Season!
Everyone at Shockwave Generators & Electric wishes you a joyous and safe holiday season. Remember, electrical safety is always in season, and our team is here to help with everything from inspections and repairs to upgrades. Contact us at (985) 261-0937 for your inspection or consultation, or easily request an appointment online. Happy decorating!
