AES Reveals Outdoor Holiday Lighting Safety Tips and Tricks

(Newswire.net — November 20, 2015) Arlington, TEXAS — Accurate Electrical Systems, a woman-owned, family operated leader in electrical repair and remodel work in Dallas-Fort Worth, is providing several outdoor lighting safety tips and tricks for the 2016 holiday season. The National Fire Protection Association estimated there were 860 home fires each year, between 2009 and 2013, resulting from Christmas decorations. Many of these are due to electrical failures. Many hazards, however, can be avoided by proceeding carefully.

Stringing lights outside the home is a favorite pastime for many. While these provide a sight the entire neighborhood can enjoy, it can put people at risk. Accurate Electrical Systems suggests several tips in preparing for the work to avoid serious accidents.

Holiday Light Preparation Tips

• Determine how many lights will be needed and how long the electrical wiring will have to be. Once the distance is measured, figure out how many clips will be needed to secure the wiring. For longer distances it’s best to run two alternating strands to avoid overloads.
• Test each strand before installing it. Every bulb should light up and, if any cords and sockets are cracked or loose, replace them immediately.
• If connecting multiple strands, check the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid an inadvertent overload. The same goes for extension cords. Be sure the extension cord is the right one, rated for the power used, and is in good condition.
• Use sturdy plastic grips that snap in place.

Holiday Lighting Safety Tips

Planning ahead is strongly advised. It might add a little time, but think of the hazards that can be avoided. Safety tips from AES this holiday season include:

• Using LED lights that remain cool. Because they are energy efficient, they don’t produce as much heat, which makes them less conducive to fires. Instead of glass, the lenses are epoxy. This makes them more durable.
• Working with a fiberglass or wooden ladder. When hanging lights, this reduces the chances of electrocution should there be an electrical short.
• Turning outdoor lights off when away from home or when going to sleep.
• Refraining from traditional candles, as they’re already exposing the home to fire.
• Keeping flame candles in sight and extinguishing them when not in the room. Also keep them away from flammable materials or places they can fall.
• Leaving light bulbs and lamp shades exposed, without covering them with decorations.

Maggie Smith, President of AES, said, “Nothing ruins the holidays more than a home fire. Fortunately, installing outdoor holiday lights properly greatly reduces the chances of an incident. We recommend taking these tips and tricks seriously in avoiding damage, injury, or worse during the upcoming holiday season.”

Accurate Electrical Systems has been providing lighting installation, inspection, and repair services since 1984. It is a landscape and Christmas lighting specialist. Able to service machinery and provide emergency generator systems and more, the company can provide valuable advice on lighting installation.

To learn more and contact AES regarding outdoor holiday lighting or any other electrical help, go to http://accurate-electric-dfw.com/.