- Inspect each decoration before plugging into an outlet. Cracked, frayed, or bare wires and loose connections may cause a serious electric shock or start a fire.
- Do not staple or nail through light strings or electrical/extension cords-you could damage the wire or insulation, which could lead to an electrical shock or fire. Use only insulated staples to hold light strings in place, not nails or tacks.
- Keep electric cords out of high-traffic areas.
- Prevent shock by plugging outdoor decorations into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
- Avoid plugging in too many lights and other decorations into a single outlet. Overloaded outlets can overheat and cause a fire.
- Be careful not to mount or hang light strands in any way that might damage the cord's insulation.
- Use only lights and electrical decorations that have been certified by a recognized independent testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), CSA or ETL.
- Before using electrical products outdoors, make sure the product is approved and marked “for outdoor use.
- Turn lights and other decorations off when you leave or go to bed. The lights could short out and start a fire.
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Always have at least one fire extinguisher available and know how to use it.
Halloween Safety
ESFI invites you to make this Halloween a memorable one by making safety a priority. Here are a few simple steps that you can take to keep your family and home safe this year.
