Holiday Lights Safety: Protect Your Home with These Outdoor Decorating Tips

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A home in Elgin, IL decorates for the holidays in 2013. [Photo: Country Herald]
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Decorating your home’s exterior for the holidays can bring seasonal cheer, but safety should always come first. Simple precautions can prevent common accidents and keep everyone safe.

To avoid electrical hazards, don’t overload circuits. Ensure all plugs are secure and use outdoor-rated extension cords. Loose connections or overloaded circuits can cause electrical issues or even fires.

When using a ladder, keep your body weight centered to avoid tipping. Wear slip-resistant shoes, and ensure the ladder’s surface is clean and dry. A secure, steady ladder minimizes the risk of falls.

Ladders should extend at least three feet beyond the roof edge. This extra length provides stability when climbing up and down. Never stand on the top two rungs, as they can be unstable.

Finally, follow the 4-to-1 rule for ladder positioning: for every four feet of height, place the ladder’s base one foot from the wall. This helps prevent tipping.

Following these safety guidelines ensures a festive, accident-free holiday season for you and your family.