If you're ready to start hanging Christmas lights, do so safely. Nearly 3 people every hour are treated in hospital emergency rooms for decorating-related injuries during every holiday season, according to the National Safety Council.
Here are 5 ways to keep yourself safe during decorating this season.
- Inspect stored lights before using them again this holiday season. Discard any with frayed or exposed wires, loose connections, or broken sockets.
- Decorate the tree with kids in mind. Place breakable ornaments and those with metal hooks near the top of the tree, where little ones can’t reach them.
- Some holiday plants, including varieties of poinsettias, can be harmful to children and pets. Keep them out of your home—or at least out of reach.
- Use sturdy ladders when decorating outdoors. Indoors, climb stepladders instead of onto chairs.
- Don’t hide extension cords under rugs or furniture. They can overheat and catch fire.