Before you plan your new holiday lighting scheme or repeat last year’s festive design, keep these 10 safety tips in mind when decorating outdoors:
- Do not toss light strands up into the air. They could get too close to or come into contact with a power line.
- Before using a ladder, always look up and assess all power line locations.
- Keep at least 10 feet between yourself (and any item you are holding) and a power line.
- Do not use staples or nails or tacks to secure light strands, cords, wires or extension cords.
- String together no more than the number of strands (or fewer) recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use lights and extension cords rated for outdoor use.
- Do not use frayed, cracked or otherwise damaged cords, plugs or lights.
Check out more safety tips at safeelectricity.org.