“More than 150 home fires each year start with holiday lights and other decorative lighting.” – U.S. Fire Administration
There’s something undeniably magical about stepping outside on a crisp December evening and seeing your neighborhood twinkle with festive cheer. But behind those shimmering rooftops and glowing reindeer lies a serious reality: poor planning or unsafe setups can turn that magic into a nightmare.
At Nola Electric, safety isn’t just a checkbox, it’s a commitment. So before you start untangling those dusty bins of holiday lights and climbing ladders, let’s talk about real, practical holiday lighting safety tips. Whether you’re decking the halls or illuminating your entire yard, these insights are here to protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.
1. Inspect Before You Illuminate
That string of lights from 2018? It might look fine but it could be a fire hazard waiting to happen.
What to do:
- Check for cracked sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections.
- Toss anything that looks even slightly damaged.
- Use UL-listed lights only this mark means they meet tested safety standards.
Pro Tip: Always buy outdoor-rated lights for external setups. Indoor lights can’t handle moisture and temp swings.
2. Don’t Overload Your Circuits
We get it more lights mean more sparkle. But overloading outlets is one of the top causes of electrical fires during the holidays.
How to stay safe:
- Limit each outlet to no more than 80% of its rated capacity.
- Use power strips with built-in circuit breakers.
- Plug lights into GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets especially outdoors.
Think of it like this: your circuit is like a holiday buffet. Pile too much on your plate, and something’s bound to spill.
3. Use Timers and Smart Plugs
Leaving your lights on overnight? It’s unnecessary and risky.
Here’s a smarter move:
- Install programmable timers or smart plugs that shut off automatically.
- Set lights to run between 5 PM and 11 PM this saves energy and extends the lifespan of your lights.
Not only do timers reduce fire risks, but they also cut down your power bill. Now that’s a festive win.
4. Choose the Right Extension Cords
Not all extension cords are created equal. Using the wrong kind can lead to overheating or even electrocution.
Safety checklist:
- Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords with a grounded three-prong plug.
- Don’t run cords under rugs, through doors or windows they can become damaged and overheat.
- Keep connectors off the ground and away from snow or puddles.
Avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords together. If you need that much reach, it’s time to rethink your setup.
5. Ladder Safety: No Holiday Heroes
We know you want the lights just right. But more than 5,800 people visit the ER every year due to holiday decorating falls.
Stay grounded with this approach:
- Always use a stable, non-metal ladder.
- Work with a buddy, never go it alone.
- Keep your tools close to avoid overreaching.
This isn’t the time to be a daredevil. One bad step could ruin more than your holidays.
6. LEDs Are the Way to Go
Still hanging onto those old incandescent bulbs? Time to upgrade.
Why LED is better:
- Use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer.
- Run cooler drastically reduces fire risk.
- Available in every festive color and style.
If you’re serious about seasonal decoration tips, this is one of the easiest wins.
7. Secure Everything Mother Nature Is Unpredictable
Wind, rain, and even a curious raccoon can wreak havoc on loose decorations.
Your move:
- Use insulated clips (not nails or staples) to attach lights safely.
- Fasten inflatables and larger decor to fixed structures.
- Keep wires off walkways to prevent tripping.
You’re not just decorating, you’re constructing a temporary outdoor system. Treat it like one.
Final Thoughts from the Nola Electric Team
Holiday lighting is about joy, but joy shouldn’t come at the cost of safety. As experts in festive electrical setups, we’ve seen firsthand what goes wrong when the basics get ignored. From overloaded outlets to improperly grounded displays, one misstep can undo weeks of planning.
This season, let your home shine brightly and safely.
If you’re unsure about your setup or want a professional check-up before you light up, give Nola Electric a call. We’re here to make sure your holidays are electrifying for all the right reasons.
Need help setting up your decorations safely this year?
Contact Nola Electric at (504) 766 9210
410 Bonita Drive, Chalmette, LA 70043
bp@nolaelectricco.com