Ah, Christmas lights. Whether you’re untangling a decade-old strand or marveling at your neighbor’s display, there’s no denying the magic they bring to the season. But those twinkling lights can come with risks. Electrocution, fires, and falls are just a few potential pitfalls—and we’ve all seen at least one holiday movie where a decoration mishap becomes the punchline.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, holiday decorating caused an average of 770 fires annually as of 2020.
By following a few essential safety tips, you can enjoy a dazzling display without compromising on safety. Let’s dive into some practical, modern holiday light safety tips to help you create a safe, bright, and joyful holiday season.
Topics Covered
Understanding the Statistics
Children under four years old account for about 10% of these holiday light injuries, often caused by swallowing or chewing on small decorative items like ornaments or electric light bulbs. Weighted stocking holders also pose a significant hazard, as they can fall and cause injuries when pulled from mantels or shelves.
Meanwhile, adults, particularly those between 40 and 60 years old, face the highest injury rates. Most injuries in this group occur while decorating—falling from ladders, slipping on icy surfaces, or mishandling electrical equipment are common culprits.
Use Ladders Responsibly
From outdoor holiday lights strung high to the star atop your Christmas tree, it’s almost impossible to avoid using a ladder. And while it may seem like it’s not a big deal, 40% of the 14,800 holiday decorating-related injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms during the 2022 holiday season were due to falls.
To help you stay safe while climbing, keep these ladder tips in mind:
- Keep Three Points of Contact: Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times.
- Choose the Right Ladder: Use a ladder that’s tall enough for the job. Avoid stretching or reaching too far.
- Inspect the Ladder: Check for cracks, loose steps, or any signs of wear before use.
- Position the Ladder on Stable Ground: Ensure the ladder is on level ground to prevent tipping.
- Avoid Carrying Heavy Items: Use a pulley or rope system to lift decorations.
- Have a Spotter: Ask someone to steady the ladder, especially on uneven ground.
- Use Wireless Ladder Safety Monitors: These smart sensors can alert you if the ladder begins to slip, adding an extra layer of security.
Practice Electrical Safety During the Holidays
Before you plug everything in, consider this: Are your lights and cords in the same condition as when you packed them away last year?
A quick inspection could save you from potential electrical hazards.
Inspect Your Equipment
- Check for Damage: Examine lights, motors, and wires for frayed cords, broken sockets, or cracked coverings.
- Test Extension Cords: Look for wear and ensure cords are rated for outdoor use where applicable.
Use GFCI Protection
Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are essential for outdoor displays. If your home doesn’t have GFCI-protected outlets, consider hiring a professional to install them. Portable GFCI adapters are also available for temporary use.
Know When to Call for an Inspection
If your holiday setup rivals a small amusement park, it might require an inspection. Temporary wiring and lights are permitted for up to 90 days under the National Electrical Code (NEC), but the installation must still meet safety standards. If in doubt, consult with a qualified electrician or your local authority.
Keep It Code-Compliant
- Authentic Labels: Ensure your lights have proper UL or similar safety certifications.
- Moisture Protection: Use wet-rated lights and lamp holders outdoors.
- GFCI Requirements: Verify all outdoor outlets have GFCI protection.
By taking these steps, you can ensure your home stays merry, bright, and hazard-free this holiday season.
Check Cords and Lights
According to the National Fire Protection Association, 860 home fires each year are caused by holiday decorations. With that in mind, take these precautions:
- Inspect for Damage: Check each light strand for frayed wires, bare spots, broken sockets, or loose connections. Discard damaged lights.
- Switch to LED Lights: LEDs are cooler, more energy-efficient, and less likely to overheat than traditional lights.
Holiday Light Safety Tips to Brighten Your Holidays Safely
Holiday lights can transform your home into a winter wonderland, but staying safe is just as important as creating a beautiful display. Here are 20 essential tips to help you enjoy the magic of the season without the risks:
Replace Missing or Broken Bulbs: Damaged bulbs can lead to injuries, electrical shocks, or fires. Most light strands come with replacement bulbs. Stock up if needed!
Fix Faulty String Lights: Repair broken lights by replacing bulbs or fuses. Often, it’s easier than it seems.
Use the Right Ladder: For outdoor displays, wooden or fiberglass ladders are safer than metal ones.
Pick the Right Lights: Outdoor lights withstand weather better than indoor ones. Match your lights to their intended use.
Check for the UL Seal: Ensure your lights meet safety standards by looking for the Underwriters Laboratory label.
Use the Correct Extension Cords: Outdoor-rated cords are necessary for exterior displays.
Keep Cords Dry: Wet cords pose significant risks. Use cord protectors or elevate connections.
Prevent Tripping Hazards: Secure cords with stakes or ground staples.
Avoid Year-Long Displays: Most lights aren’t designed for extended use. Check packaging for durability details.
Limit Light Strands: Connect no more than three incandescent strands or check LED packaging for specifics.
Avoid Running Cords Through Windows or Doors: Pinched cords can fray. Route cords securely.
Skip the Staples and Tacks: Pierced wires create hazards. Use plastic hooks instead.
Turn Off Lights Overnight: Reduce fire risk and energy usage by turning off lights if you’re leaving home or going to bed.
Decorate Vehicles Safely: Use power inverters and secure decorations properly for car displays.
Decorate Properly: Make sure all extension cords and electrical decorations are marked for proper use.
Water Your Christmas Tree: Watering your Christmas tree daily can help keep it from drying out too quickly and thus remove a potential fire hazard from your home.
Beware of Heating Hazards: Keep all decorations at least three feet from heating equipment or open flames like fireplaces or candles.
Avoid Power Lines: If you’re decorating near power lines, be sure to keep at least ten feet away.
Final Thoughts
Christmas lights are a hallmark of the season, but safety should always come first. By following these tips, you can enjoy a dazzling display without the risk of a holiday disaster. So, grab your eggnog, string up those lights, and bask in the glow of a festive and safe holiday season!
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Sources
CNN. Deck the halls (extra carefully): Common Christmas injuries, illustrated. https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/21/health/common-christmas-decoration-injuries-illustrated-dg/index.html
Electrical Safety Foundation International. In The Right Light – Decorate Your Home Safely During The Holidays. https://www.esfi.org/in-the-right-light-decorate-your-home-safely-during-the-holidays/
Eversource. Holiday Light Safety. https://www.eversource.com/content/business/safety/electric-safety/outdoor-electric-safety/holiday-light-safety
National Fire Protection Association. Practice Electrical Safety when Decorating for the Holidays. https://www.nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/blogs/2022/11/02/holiday-lighting-to-inspect-or-not-to-inspect-that-is-the-question
USA Facts. Over 18,000 annual ER visits linked to Christmas decor incidents.https://usafacts.org/data-projects/christmas-decorating-injuries