As the holiday gets closer, many families are preparing to tackle their favorite December pastime—decorating. While it sounds exciting, it is important to note that many of the decorating items carry the risk of fire and electrical hazards if not used properly.
Don’t let these preventable accidents take the fun out of your holiday experience. Try these safety tips to prevent fire and electrical hazards:
Replace Your Damaged Lights
Take time to go around your home and check for damaged lights. Replace the frayed and exposed wires as they can cause serious electrical problems and even start a fire. Also, avoid using out-dated Christmas lights and go for decorative lights that have Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label for added safety.
Cook with Care
According to the U.S Fire Administration, 47% of home fires start while cooking. This holiday, you may have a lot of menus to cook so be sure to take precautionary measures in the kitchen. When cooking, do not leave your oven unattended, and when the food preparation is done, turn off the burners immediately and remove the pans as your stovetop can remain hot.
Be Mindful of Where You Place the Lights
While it’s nice to see lots of Christmas decorations hanging in and out of your home, placing them in the wrong place could increase the risk of electrical hazards. Don’t hang the lights near your HVAC, fireplace, mantles, and other heat-generating equipment to prevent the wires from melting. You should know that exposed wires are hazardous, as they could spark and start electrical issues.
Child-Proof Your Wiring
If you have kids, then you should make sure your home stays safe for them this holiday. Your Christmas light wires should be placed somewhere unreachable by your little tots. Also, be mindful of the scattering extension cords and wires on your floor. For added safety, use only tamper-resistant outlets, especially in locations that can be reached by children.
Schedule Your HVAC Maintenance
Electrical problems in your HVAC are leading fire hazards. As your unit ages, the connections get old and loose, resulting in power exertion from your unit. When this happens, its wires will burn and increase the chance of fire dangers. This makes it essential for you to schedule your HVAC maintenance with the pros to spot and fix the problem in your comfort unit.
By understanding the potential fire and electrical threats and taking precautionary measures, you can keep your home and family safe and warm while enjoying the holiday season.
Contact us at Hightower Service if your electrical and HVAC systems are facing serious trouble. Let us fix the problem so you can keep the fun going during the holidays.
