Three Ways to Decorate for Halloween Safely

How to Stay Safe While Being Festive for Spooky Season

Spooky Season is almost here, meaning it’s time to get out the Halloween decorations and get festive! However, it’s important that these fun decorations don’t accidentally turn into a real horror show. With a few precautions, homeowners can ensure they stay safe while still being festive during this Spooky Season. No one wants an electrical mishap, but it can happen if homeowners aren’t careful with their decorations! Read on for three tips to decorate safely this Halloween season. 

Make Sure Decorations Aren’t Damaged

The first thing on the decoration to-do list should always be inspecting any electrical decorations. Some wear-and-tear is common with older decorations, but it’s important to make sure that there are no exposed wires, damaged cords, exposed lighting sockets, or any other major damage to the decorations. 

Even brand-new decorations can sometimes have broken components or manufacturing defects, so checking them before plugging them in is a good idea. Once the decorations have been inspected, homeowners can plug them in and make sure there are no shortages, shorted bulbs, or other issues. 

Plan ahead for Plugs

With all the fun Halloween decorations now available, from lights and LED Jack-o’-lanterns to light-up statues and motion-sensor props, it can be easy to load up. While having plenty of decorations is fine, it’s important to plan for what decorations will be plugged in and where. The general rule is that only two or three decorations should be plugged into a single outlet. Still, it’s best to ensure the amperage doesn’t exceed the plug’s capacity to avoid an overloaded circuit.

Likewise, it’s best to avoid stringing multiple extension cords together unless they’re made for that purpose. Keep plugged-in decorations near walls, and ensure no cords are in high-traffic areas where they will present a tripping hazard. Finally, it’s good to use UL-rated power strips to protect the decorations when they’re in use. 

Use Common Sense Precautions When Sleeping or Leaving Home

When it’s time for bed, homeowners should turn off their decorations. Not only does this conserve energy and lower the utility bill, but it can also negate any accident risk that would otherwise be present with the decorations on. Alternatively, timers can automatically turn decorations off at a certain time. When leaving home for an extended period, it’s always a good idea to keep the decorations off, just in case. 

Candles have always been a big part of Halloween, but they pose a fire risk. Luckily, flameless LED candles are widely available now and can be used in Jack-o'-lanterns instead of wax candles. These are cost-effective and safe, although they use small batteries that could pose a health risk if ingested. Known as “button batteries,” they can (and often are) be confused for candy and swallowed, so everyone in the household knows they’re not to be eaten. Those homeowners who choose to use traditional candles should always double-check that they blow out their candles every night before bed to prevent a fire hazard. 

Need help with your holiday lighting? Let us handle your electrical repair needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

About Albritton Service Company

Albritton Service Company has been proudly serving Ruston, LA, since 1982. As a local, family-owned and operated company, they provide the area with electrical safety checks and holiday lighting installation. They also offer a satisfaction guarantee on every job. Contact them today for holiday electrical services in Ruston, LA. 

Contact Information:

Albritton Service Co

1009 E Georgia Ave
Ruston, LA 71270
United States

Teresa Aulds
(318) 251-0885
https://www.albrittonservice.com/