Christmas Tree Safety - PT II

Keep an eye on extension cords, as they can occasionally overheat. Just touch-test the cord. If it is hot, unplug it.

Do not use tacks, nails or screws to hang lights, which can pierce the cable and become electrified. Use insulated hooks instead.

When running extension cords along the ground, make sure to elevate plugs and connectors with a brick to keep snow, water and debris out of the connections.

Tape down any ground-level extensions cords to prevent people from tripping over them. 

Check to make sure lights have been rated by a testing laboratory. You can see a list of federally recognized labs on the Occupational Safety & Health Administrations website.

Not all lights are rated for outdoor use. Indoor lights often have thinner insulation, which can become cracked and damaged when exposed to the elements outdoors. So make sure the ones you string up on the house belong out there.

Do not leave Christmas lights running when you go to bed at night or when you leave the house.

When you put your lights back into storage after the holidays, make sure to put them in a well-sealed container to prevent possible water damage and to block hungry rodents looking to turn the cords into lunch. My final advice? Be careful with ladders.

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