(Estherville)– Many people are taking advantage of this holiday weekend to put up Christmas lights both indoors and outdoors. If you’re among them, Terry Bruns of Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative says there are several safety tips you need to keep in mind to avoid a tragedy during the holidays.
First off, according to Bruns, is to make sure electrical outlets aren’t overloaded; and don’t use any extension cords that have insulation showing or have any other kind of wear.
Bruns says you should also remember those lights…depending on how many you put up and their wattage, will make your light meter spin a little faster. He recommends putting lights on timers, and reminds you to turn them off whenever you’re not going to be around.
Bruns also recommends your outlets have ground fault interruption protection, or GFI. The feature automatically trips a breaker to shut off power to an outlet whenever certain conditions are present, such as moisture or overloads.
And if you’re using a ladder to put up lights outdoors, Bruns says it’s vital you look up first to make sure there aren’t any power lines in the way. Many people are electrocuted each year by making contact with power lines while erecting ladders and other items.
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