#United States #Holiday Safety #Akron #FirstEnergy #decorating tips

Holiday Cheer and Safety

The holiday season is a time of joy, festivities, and decorating our homes to celebrate the magic of the season. Yet, as we embrace the twinkling lights and charming decorations, safety should remain our top priority. FirstEnergy Corp. offers valuable advice to turn your holiday decorating into a pleasant and secure experience.

Stay Safe with Your Outdoor Displays

To kick off your decorating journey, it’s essential to keep safety at the forefront. Here are some important tips to ensure your outdoor displays shine safely:

1. Keep Distance from Power Lines: Always keep yourself, your decorations, and equipment like ladders and lifts at least 10 feet away from power lines. This simple step can prevent dangerous accidents.

2. Choose the Right Ladder: When using a ladder, select a sturdy and slip-resistant step ladder. If your decorations require roof access, transport your ladder horizontally to avoid falls.

3. Have a Spotter: It’s wise to have someone assist you by acting as a lookout when using a ladder or an aerial lift. Ensure that your spotter can see you clearly while you’re working.

4. Hang Decorations Carefully: Avoid throwing lights into trees or structures. Instead, take your time to hang decorations neatly and safely.

5. Secure Your Setup: Winter winds can be fierce. Use anchors to hold your decorations firmly in place to prevent them from getting blown away.

6. Avoid Utility Poles: Never attach decorations to utility poles or any electrical equipment. This is not just risky; it’s a grave safety concern.

7. Call for Help: If any decorations become entangled in a power line, don’t attempt to remove them yourself. Call 888-LIGHTSS — FirstEnergy will handle it safely.

Indoor Decorating Without Hazards

Creating a cozy holiday atmosphere inside also requires attention to safety:

• - Inspect Cords: Before plugging in lights, check for damaged cords. Replace any that are cracked, frayed, or have exposed wiring. If any cords feel hot, unplug them immediately.

• - Understand the UL Label: When purchasing lights, look at the UL label. A red tag signifies that the product can be used both indoors and outdoors, while a green tag is for indoor use only.

• - Utilize GFCI Outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlets help prevent electrical shocks, especially when used outdoors. This precaution is key for safe holiday lighting.

• - Avoid Staples and Nails: Instead of using staples or nails, which can damage cords, opt for clips to secure decorations safely.

• - Manage Your Cords: Refrain from running extension cords under carpets or through furniture inside your home, and avoid running them across walkways outdoors to minimize trip hazards.

• - Don’t Overload Circuits: Plugging too many devices into an outlet can lead to overheating and possibly a fire. Use caution and distribute your electrical load wisely.

• - Go for Flameless Options: Consider using LED candles or other flameless alternatives to enjoy a warm glow without the fire risk.

• - Keep Lights Away from Flammable Materials: Ensure that indoor lights do not come into contact with curtains, carpets, or furniture to minimize fire hazards.

Conclusion

By following these essential safety tips, you can create a festive and joyful atmosphere in your home while protecting yourself and your loved ones. This holiday season, let’s prioritize safety and make the festivities bright and memorable! For more safety resources and information, visit firstenergycorp.com/safety.

FirstEnergy Corp. operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the United States, serving over six million customers across several states. Their commitment to safety and reliability ensures that your holiday decorating can be both joyful and secure.