As Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz is famous for saying, there’s no place like home. That’s especially true during the holidays, where we love nothing more than curling up in front of the fire on a chilly December evening. Ruby slippers optional. We can’t get enough of those twinkling lights and our new electrical gadgets. 

But is it any wonder that the holidays are a time when your home is using more electricity than any other time of the year? Between heat, light, and entertainment, your home’s electrical risk is at an all-time high. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association states that Christmas lights cause 40% of Christmas tree fires. Now, don’t let that put you off your holiday decorating, because we’ve got some electrical facts to keep in mind when keeping your family safe this holiday season.

Not all Christmas trees are equal

If you can’t resist the festive scent of pine trees, don’t mind vacuuming up pine needles, and only the real deal will do, bear the following in mind. Christmas trees can be flammable due to the large surface area and porous characteristic – they pull in oxygen which fuels a fire. A dry tree will catch fire easily, so go for a tree that’s as fresh as possible. The needles should be green and difficult to pull off, and they should bend rather than snap. When you get your prizewinning tree home (if you can get it through the door) cut the bottom of the tree at a 45-degree angle and place it in water – this will keep it fresher for longer and reduce the fire risk.

You’d think that an artificial tree is a safer option, but that’s not necessarily the case. Some have harmful levels of lead and arsenic. The solution? Check the label and choose a fire-retardant tree. This won’t stop the tree from catching fire, however, it can resist burning and be easily extinguished if it does catch fire when compared with the non-fire-retardant variety. 

Light up your Christmas

It wouldn’t be festive without the lights, so once you have untangled those light strings, remember that it’s essential to plug them in and check if all of the bulbs are working, and to inspect the lights for damage to the cables. Never take a chance – throw away anything that looks frayed. Keep young children and pets away from cables.

If you’re arranging lights outdoors, remember that securing lights with nails, tacks or screws can damage the cable of a light string.  Use an insulated hook to avoid electrical damage. You can keep outdoor connector pieces raised off the ground with a brick or rock. If left on the ground, the rain will leak into the plug and become a hazard.

When January rolls around and you’re given the unenviable task of packing those electrical lights away, take care to use a sealed box. Otherwise, rodents can chew through wires or a leaking roof can lead to water damage to these items.

Everyday electrics

Of course, electrical safety is important at any time of the year. Always check electrical equipment in the home, say goodbye to anything faulty, and schedule an electrical inspection to check on the wiring of the home.

When Matter Home Inspections carry out a health check on your home, electrics are an essential part of the inspection. We highlight in our report any electrical issues that are a current issue, and anything likely to cause you trouble or risk in the future. Investing in your home in this way can save you thousands of dollars down the line.  Call us to find out more.

We wish our friends and neighbors a safe and peaceful Christmas!