The Christmas and New Year holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and beautiful lighting displays—but it’s also one of the highest-risk times of year for residential electrical hazards. From overloaded circuits and improper extension cord use to roof-related injuries and fire risks, many holiday incidents are preventable with the right knowledge and preparation.
At Electrify247, we believe safety should shine just as brightly as your decorations. Before you plug in another string of lights or climb onto the roof, here are the most important electrical safety considerations every homeowner should know.
1. Christmas Tree Safety: Real vs. Artificial Trees
Real Trees
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Keep real trees well-watered at all times—dry needles are extremely flammable.
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Place trees away from heat sources, fireplaces, radiators, and vents.
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Never run lights on a real tree overnight or when leaving the house.
Artificial Trees
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Ensure the tree is fire-resistant (UL-listed).
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Inspect internal wiring on pre-lit trees for damage before use.
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Avoid modifying or splicing factory-installed wiring.
🔥 Important: If you notice flickering lights, burning smells, or warm cords—unplug immediately.
2. Indoor & Outdoor Lighting: Use the Right Equipment
Not all holiday lights are created equal.
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Indoor lights should never be used outdoors.
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Outdoor-rated lights are designed to withstand moisture, temperature changes, and wind.
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Look for UL or ETL certification labels before purchasing or installing.
💡 LED holiday lights are strongly recommended—they:
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Use up to 75% less energy
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Produce far less heat
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Reduce fire risk and energy costs
3. Extension Cords: One of the Biggest Holiday Hazards
Extension cords are meant for temporary use only, not as permanent wiring.
Best Practices:
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Use indoor-rated cords indoors and outdoor-rated cords outdoors—never mix them.
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Never run cords:
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Under rugs
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Through doorways or windows
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Where they can be pinched or damaged
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Avoid daisy-chaining (connecting multiple extension cords together).
⚠️ Overloaded or damaged extension cords are a leading cause of holiday electrical fires.
4. Power Strips vs. Surge Protectors
Many homeowners unknowingly overload power strips during the holidays.
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Basic power strips do not protect against surges.
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Use surge-protected power strips for electronics and lighting.
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Never plug one power strip into another.
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Avoid using power strips for:
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Space heaters
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Large decorative displays
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High-wattage equipment
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If you need more outlets, have an electrician install them properly.
5. Roof & Ladder Safety for Holiday Lighting
Falls from roofs and ladders are extremely common during the holiday season.
If You’re Decorating Yourself:
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Use a sturdy ladder rated for your weight
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Never decorate alone
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Avoid wet, icy, or windy conditions
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Stay clear of overhead power lines at all times
🏠 Pro Tip: Hiring a licensed electrician or professional installer reduces both electrical and physical risks.
6. Electrical Panel Load & Power Consumption
Holiday decorations can significantly increase your home’s electrical demand.
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Older homes may not be equipped to handle added loads
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Tripped breakers are a warning sign—not an inconvenience
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Overloaded panels increase fire risk
🎄 Between lights, inflatables, indoor décor, and entertaining appliances, your utility bill may rise noticeably.
7. Smart Energy-Saving Tips for the Holidays
You can enjoy festive lighting without unnecessary risk or expense.
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Use timers to limit lighting to evening hours
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Consider smart plugs for scheduling and remote shutoff
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Turn off decorative lighting overnight
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Replace damaged cords and lights immediately
💰 These steps reduce:
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Fire risk
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Energy waste
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Unexpected power bill spikes
8. When to Call a Professional Electrician
Contact a licensed electrician if you experience:
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Frequent breaker trips
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Flickering or dimming lights
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Warm outlets or switches
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Burning smells or buzzing sounds
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Outdated or undersized electrical panels
At Electrify247, we specialize in residential electrical safety, upgrades, and emergency service, especially during high-demand seasons.
Celebrate Brightly—And Safely
The holidays should be remembered for joy, not emergencies. Taking a few extra precautions can protect your home, your loved ones, and your investment.
If you’re unsure about your setup or want peace of mind this season, Electrify247 is here to help—24/7.
📞 Contact us today for a holiday electrical safety inspection or emergency service.