Lights
- Use the proper lights for the proper area. Indoor lights can pop outside from weather exposure, and outdoor lights can get too hot for indoor use.
- Check the light strand. Look for wear, breaks, loose copper or burned areas.
- Check sockets, plugs and bulbs for defects. If you find a burned-out or defective bulb, replace it.
- After you check the stand, plug it in and leave it on for 10-15 minutes to check for shorts, defects, and melting or smoking bulbs.
- If there are any defects with the strand, don't use it.
Once the strand it checked, you're almost ready to hang it. But first:
- Read the side of the box before connecting multiple lines together. If you are going to use several different types, follow the general guideline of no more than 200 midget lights connected or 50 large lights connected through one string or cord.
- Don't overload extension cords. No more than three strand should be connected to one cord.
- Placement of strand is important. Keep it clear of the tree water.
- Keep cords out of high-traffic areas. If you must cross a traffic area, use a cord protector.
- Never run a cord under the rug. The wires might heat up and cause a fire.
- Avoid running the plug behind furniture. Moving the furniture can crimp or break the cord.
Decorations
- Keep glass and electrical ornaments at least four feet off the ground.
- Ensure that children can't and don't climb after objects.
- Keep tinsel high up. Children and pets may swallow and choke on the strands.
- Discard any old ornaments that are chipped or cracked. Dispose of any ornaments that may be painted with a lead-based paint or any other toxic material.
- If you are working with spun glass or angel hair, wear gloves to protect your hands from irritation.
- Avoid metallic ornaments due to shock hazards.
- Avoid metallic or synthetic garlands due to shock hazards.
Gifts
- As you wrap, keep scissors and sharp objects from children..
- Collect ribbons before and after presents are opened.
- Never allow children to play with plastic wrap or bubble wrap.
- Keep pets away from choking hazards.
Source: Celebrating Safety, COASTAL Training and Technologies Corp. 2000
