Holiday Tree

It's that time of the year when we are decorating for the holiday season which include a holiday tree with decorations in many households. In the excitement we often overlook safety, especially regarding a holiday tree and outdoor lighting. If you live in a snow region its likely that there will be snow on the ground during the holiday season. Out door Christmas lights can be very susceptible to electrical short circuits causing fires or personal injury. Always inspect your lights before use for damage wires and connector plugs. Do not use damaged lights strings. Replace all damaged and suspect damaged lights.

 A little bit of moisture can cause a short circuit that may induce an unpleasant event such as electrical shock or fire. All the extension cord connectors and strings of lights that plug into each other should be taped with electrical tape to prevent moisture entry causing an electrical short.

The precautions for outside lights should also be applied to inside lights. Never use defected lights not matter how small the imperfection may be. If your Christmas  tree is a natural tree you should avoid placing it near a heat source such a heat vent or register to avoid rapid dry out of the tree. Dry trees will burn in flash once they are ignited. For extra precaution we recommend that after you finish decorating your tree that you shake a box of baking soda all over the tree. Baking soda is a great fire retardant and will give the tree the appearance of a light snow covering. Have a safe  and happy holiday.