CHARLOTTE – Light up safely over the holidays:

• Choose the right light for the job. Light strings and other decorations are rated for indoor or outdoor use. Read the package instructions, never exceed the recommended wattage
• Replace damaged electrical products (cords, plugs, ornaments)
• Avoid plugging too many lights and decorations into an outlet. Overloaded circuits can overheat and start a fire
• Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) when plugging in outdoors
• Buy decorations with the mark of an accredited certification agency on the package
• When you open the package, check for an approval sticker. This should appear on the cord of light strings.

Extension Cords/Plugs:

• Avoid overloading circuits with plugs and extension cords. This can create overheating and result in a fire. Fuses that frequently blow and circuits that trip might mean you have connected too many items to the circuit
• Don’t run extension cords under carpets, through doorways, or in places where furniture might damage them
• Keep outdoor connections above-ground and out of puddles. Don’t run them across driveways and/or walkways.

Installing Decorations:

• Usually, you can safely connect no more than three light strings. Read manufacturers’ instructions for directions
• Make sure bulbs don’t touch supply cords, wires, cloth, paper, or any material that’s not part of the light string
• Use the proper clips for securing lights and decorations. Staples and nails can damage electrical cords
• Holiday decorations aren’t designed for year-round use and can deteriorate over time. Take them down when the holidays are over (your neighbors will also thank you!).