Safety Tips for Installing Christmas Lights Outside
Putting Christmas lights outdoors is a fun way to decorate for the holidays. However, it’s important to prioritize safety when installing exterior lighting. Planning and taking precautions can help prevent accidents and injuries.
Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind
Key Safety Tips
Select the Right Ladders and Tools
Using the proper equipment is essential for safely putting lights up outside. Make sure ladders are steady, well-supported, and at the right height. Avoid overreaching. Have someone hold the ladder for extra stability.
Choose commercial-grade clips, hooks, ties and fasteners to affix lights securely. Always inspect equipment before using it and replace anything worn, cracked or unstable. Turn off power via circuit breakers before changing bulbs or doing electrical work.
Check for Hazards
Take time to thoroughly scan the area and structure before decorating. Look for potential risks like power lines, loose gutters, tree branches and uneven surfaces. Ensure the roof and channels are clear of leaves and debris that could cause slipping.
Prune back any bushes or trees to allow for safe access. Identify any cords, wires or conduits that could get tangled in decorations. Address any issues to minimize the chances of falls or accidents.
Use Proper Lighting
LED options are safest when selecting Christmas lights since they use less power and don’t heat up as much. Ensure all electrical components are from reputable brands and listed as exterior rated. Do not overload circuits with too many light strands. Extension cords should also be outdoor-approved and adequately sized for the connected load.
Use plastic clips instead of nails or tacks to secure cords and prevent damage. Always turn the lights off before going to bed or leaving the house.
Put Safety First When Working Outdoors
Only try to install lights in good weather conditions. Wait for dry days without ice, snow or strong wind gusts. Ensure you have solid, slip-resistant footwear and gloves to grip equipment and climb ladders safely. Work during the daytime so you can better spot risks.
Take frequent breaks, and don’t overexert yourself. If you have any medical issues or aren’t comfortable working from heights, consider hiring a professional.
Use Proper Securing Techniques
Carefully affix lights to surfaces so decorations don’t come loose and fall. Follow all product mounting guidelines and weight limits. For roof edges and lines, securely anchor clips and hooks into the fascia or gutters – not just the shingles alone. Tie or clip long connecting cords at regular intervals.
Don’t staple or nail lighting cords. Test secured lights to ensure connections are tight and stable. Periodically check decorations for any signs they are loosening over the season.
Exercise Caution near Power Lines & Water
Keep all lights, fasteners, tools and equipment at least 10 feet from overhead power lines. Never drape lights directly on pools, hot tubs or other bodies of water. Only install lighting approved for underwater use when decorating ponds or fountains per the listing.
Use ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets near wet areas. Make sure no wires run through standing water or bushes touching homes.
Inspect and Maintain Decorations
Inspect lights and connections occasionally for damage once installed. Replace any broken bulbs or faulty wiring right away. Check for loose clips, tangled cords and signs of wear. Make sure lights stay adequately secured throughout the season.
Only connect up to three light strand sets together. Always turn off decorations before replacing bulbs or making any adjustments.
Take Down with Care
Use the same safety gear and equipment when installing or taking holiday lights down. Unclip and neatly roll up strands to prevent tangling for next season. Seal any unused fastener holes in the fascia or roof.
Properly dispose of old or damaged lighting components so they don’t pose electric shock risks. Exercise caution on ladders and when reaching to ensure safe removal.
Following these Christmas lights safety tips requires some diligence but prevents most accidents. Taking time to assess risks, using quality materials, testing connections and decorating responsibly lets everyone enjoy the festive display. Paying attention to safety ensures many years of fabulous outdoor lighting.
Get Expert Help
Consider hiring professionals if the project and following these safety tips seem overwhelming or hazardous. A Brilliant Solution Holiday Lighting consistently receives 5-star high ratings for its spectacular lighting displays installed safely by experts.
Contact A Brilliant Solution Holiday Lighting for a free consultation. The friendly duo family owners and lighting staff are friendly, bonded and insured. The team handles everything from design to installation, take-down, and light storage, making holiday decor easy and enjoyable. Let the professionals safely install dazzling lights so you can relax and celebrate the season.
