December 1st is National Christmas Lights Day, so our team decided to share some basic guidelines for electrical safety and tips for holiday lights.
Decor Tips
Choose your bulb size. Do you want your home to stand out, or are you going for a more classic, understated effect? Larger bulbs glow brighter while smaller bulbs can create a more glittering, icy effect and use less energy.
Light color. There are many different kinds of colors to choose from when it comes to holiday lighting.
- Blue: Hanukkah is the Jewish Festival of Lights, so hanging blue and white lights this year is a great way to get festive and celebrate the holiday season!
- Multi-colored: These fun lights can give your home a cozy gingerbread house theme.
- White: White lights are classic and versatile—choose this color if you want to let your other decor have the center stage.
Save energy. Get a bright, eye-catching decor without the spike in electricity! Tinsel, bells, and reflective ornaments can add shine to your home without upping the electricity bill. LED lights cost more upfront, but they can also last for up to 40 seasons!
Safety
- Each year, about 4,000 injuries associated with electric extension cords are treated in hospital emergency rooms—electrical burns to the mouth accounted for 50% of the injuries to young children. Check all light strands for broken or cracked sockets, loose connections, or frayed wires.
- 150 home fires per year happen because of holiday lights or decorative lighting. Unplug tree lights before going to bed.
- Candles started 45% of home decoration fires. Blow out any candles before going to bed or anytime you leave a room.
- Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was involved in more than two of every five (44%) home Christmas tree fires. Invest in power strips and make sure you know the max amperage of any electrical circuit you’re using to avoid overheating your outlets.