Trees, lights and decorations: They are all what makes this season bright! But they also pose a fire hazard if proper care isn’t followed, according to experts at UPMC Mercy Trauma and Burn Center.
Consider these safety tips when you are decorating this holiday season:
Place Christmas trees away from heat sources, such as radiators or fireplaces. If possible, place it near a smoke detector.
Aluminum and metallic trees should not be decorated with lights. They may conduct electricity and cause electrocution.
Use flame-resistant ornaments.
Never decorate trees with unlit candles or other flammable decorations.
Always inspect your lights before use for damage and frayed wires. Replace them with new ones even if there is just a little damage. Some retailers now offer trade-in credits toward new lights during the holiday season.
Make sure lights are marked with the UL Seal (Underwriters Laboratories Inc., an independent, not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization).
Always check indoor and outdoor wires, bulbs, electrical plugs and sockets before using.
Do not overload electrical outlets or extension cords.
Do not run electrical cords under rugs or carpets. Cords can fray and cause a fire.
Turn off holiday lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
