Lighting Up the Season Safely: A Guide to Festive Decor
As the holiday season approaches, the air is filled with excitement and anticipation. One cherished tradition that brightens up neighbourhoods and spreads joy is the art of decorating homes with Christmas and holiday lights. While the dazzling displays of festive decor can turn any ordinary house into a winter wonderland, it’s crucial to prioritise safety to ensure the festivities remain joyful. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of putting up outdoor holiday lights, with a particular focus on keeping you safe!
Choosing the Right Lights
Before you embark on your festive decor adventure, it’s essential to select the right type of lights. Opt for lights that are specifically designed for outdoor use. These lights are weather-resistant and better equipped to withstand the elements. LED lights are a popular choice as they are energy-efficient, produce less heat, and are generally more durable than traditional incandescent lights. Make sure all lights are protected by a Residual Current Device (RCD)
Inspecting Your Lights
Inspecting your lights is a crucial step in ensuring safety. Before hanging them, carefully examine each string for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires, broken bulbs, or exposed connections. If you notice any defects, it’s safer to replace the entire strand rather than attempting to repair it. Damaged lights pose a fire hazard and should never be used.
Planning Your Festive Decor Display
While it’s tempting to cover every inch of your home in twinkling lights, it’s crucial to plan your display thoughtfully. Avoid overloading electrical outlets and extension cords, as this can lead to overheating and increase the risk of a fire. Before you start decorating, map out your lighting arrangement, taking note of the location of outlets and ensuring you have the appropriate extension leads for the job.
Using Outdoor-Rated Extension Leads
When extending the reach of your holiday lights, always use outdoor-rated extension leads. These leads are designed to withstand exposure to the elements, reducing the risk of electrical malfunctions. Make sure the extension cords are in good condition, with no frayed wires or exposed conductors, before plugging them in.
Securing Lights Safely
Properly securing your lights is not only essential for aesthetics but also for safety. Use clips or hangers designed for outdoor use to fasten lights to your home’s exterior. Avoid using staples or nails, as they can damage the insulation on the wires and create a potential safety hazard. When hanging lights along the roofline, use a sturdy ladder, with someone footing it to ensure stability.
Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
While holiday lights are designed to withstand various weather conditions, it’s still crucial to be mindful of extreme weather. If heavy rain, snow, or wind is in the forecast, consider temporarily unplugging your lights to prevent any electrical issues. Additionally, avoid hanging lights near power lines and be cautious of any nearby trees that may come into contact with the electrical wires during adverse weather.
Timers and Smart Plugs for Convenience and Safety
Investing in timers or smart plugs can add an extra layer of safety to your holiday lighting. Timers can automatically turn your lights on and off at specified times, reducing the risk of fire caused by leaving them on overnight. Smart plugs allow you to control your lights remotely, providing flexibility and convenience while ensuring they are not left on for extended periods.
Taking Down Lights Promptly
Once the holiday season has come to an end, take down your festive decor promptly. Leaving lights up for an extended period increases the risk of damage due to weather exposure and may lead to safety hazards. Properly store your lights in a cool, dry place to ensure they remain in good condition for the next festive season.