Halloween is a holiday that offers dozens of opportunities for electrical decorations. From pumpkin-shaped string lights to smoke machines, there are many ways to plug into the holiday season. Before you flip the switch on your spooky home or business décor this Halloween, make sure you’ve covered all your bases. Follow these electrical safety tips to have a fun and safe Halloween in Medford.
Inspect Cords and Wires
If you bring out the same Halloween décor year after year, make sure you check all electrical components for cracked insulation, exposed wires, frayed wires, or other types of damage. Dispose of any items or extension cords that look damaged, as they can lead to electrical fires. Avoid plugging in too many items into the same outlet, as this can overload the circuit and cause sparks. Keep indoor and outdoor cords out of high-traffic areas to help prevent damage to the cords as well as to avoid a trip and fall hazard.
Don’t Put Flammable Décor Near Lights
Most store-bought Halloween items will be made with flame-resistant materials, but organic items like dried flowers, hay, or corn stalks pose fire hazards. Reduce these decorations or eliminate them completely for a safer home. Dry items are highly flammable, and may even ignite in close proximity to light bulbs. Instead, go with flame-retardant decorations and keep them away from open flames and sources of heat.
Use the Right Outdoor Equipment
Attracting trick-or-treaters with frightening lawn ornaments is all part of the Halloween fun. If you use lights or electrical equipment on your lawn, make sure they are marked for outdoor use. Otherwise, the cords and components may not be able to safely withstand rain, dew, or trampling feet. Protect outdoor circuits with ground fault circuit interrupters to prevent electric shock.
Have a Happy (Harmless) Halloween!
It’s not a trick – the real treat this Halloween should be enjoying yourself without fear of electric shocks or fires. Use these tips to keep your home or business safe for the season.
Sources:
http://www.esfi.org/resource/halloween-safety-tips-427
http://www.esfi.org/resource/halloween-safety-534