The lights of the Christmas season bring a festive and warm atmosphere to trees, boats and homes. Take these steps to help ensure lights are managed safely:

• Purchase the appropriate lights and accessories for the job, such as outdoor lights and extension cords for the exterior and interior lights for inside the home;
• Never use lit candles to decorate your tree;
• Purchase the proper clips and hangers for your lights. Avoid using nails, screws and staples;
• Inspect light strings and extension cords before use. If there is any sign of damage to the cords or light sockets, they should not be used;
• Ensure extension cords have a rating that meets your needs, and if it is being used outside, the cord must be designated for exterior use;
• Never overload electrical outlets;
• Avoid stringing different light types together. For example, do not plug a string of new LED lights into an older, incandescent one; and
• Never pinch extension cords by running them through doorways or windows.

Follow the department on Twitter @MAE_GovNL  for holiday safety tips.

The Department of Municipal Affairs and Environment wishes all residents a safe and happy holiday season.

– 30 –

Media contact
Lynn Robinson
Municipal Affairs and Environment
709-729-5449, 691-9466
lynnrobinson@gov.nl.ca