Halloween is just around the corner and with it will come some spooktacular decorations and costumes. While we at Mister Sparky are very excited, we also want you to address some common hazards that come with outdoor decorations this fall.
Halloween Decoration Safety
Cords and wires – Cracked, frayed or wires with no insulation is a serious hazard, potentially causing electrical shock or fire. Before you put those scary Jack-O-Lanterns on your doorstep, check all electrical cords to make sure they haven’t been damage. If any of your fall decor should be worn, immediately toss and replace with UL-approved lights and decorations.
Indoors and outdoors – When you decorations indicate that its only for use indoors, its not just a suggestion. As easy as it may be to move some of our spooky indoor decor to the front step, it may actually be exposing trick-or-treaters to electrical shock or fire. Make sure to purchase decorations that are indicated ‘for outdoor use’ if you want to be using them outside.
Proper installation – Halloween decorations can be so fun – hanging lights, cobwebs, spiders galore, but nailing or stapling cords out of the way is never a safe option. Use plastic cord mounts and hooks to wrangle wires without damaging cord insulation and creating exposed wiring.
These Halloween decorations are great but are all those lights overloading extension cords and outlets?
Extension Cords and outlets – Covering your front yard with multiple inflatables, flashing lights, and haunting sound effects sounds like a Halloween dream, just remember that you’ll have to plug in all those electrical components somewhere! To prevent hazards from an overwhelmed electrical system, check that you’re not exceeding the maximum load that your extension cords are capable of.
Plug extension cords into outlets that are GFCI protected to prevent electrical shock, and consider using outlet ‘in-use’ covers to shelter electrical connections from water or other hazards.
Lights – So many great Halloween decorations are amplified by spine-chilling lighting effects, but we want you to be safe about using the proper lighting in your home this year. Check all lighted decorations for wattage requirements. Consider using LED light bulbs to keep those Jack-O-Lanterns cool to the touch, and always be sure that any Halloween decorations or accessories are made with non-combustible materials.
Tripping hazards – We know that the best front yard decorations probably come with plenty of cords and cables, so make sure you’re keeping the sidewalks and doorways completely clear of electrical cords. This will keep those trick-or-treaters safe from preventable falls and trips.
Turn it off! – As much as you’ll want to keep those blood-curdling decorations on all night, we definitely recommend turning lights and electrical decorations off before going to bed or leaving your home to prevent electrical fires.
Before you put out your decor, make sure you’ve checked your decorations and replaced worn electrical cords, and plan out how you want to layout electrical decorations in your yard or home.
Mister Sparky wants you to have a spooky Halloween season this year but most importantly a safe one.
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Needed circuit breaker replaced and a couple of wall light switches replaced covered under my Electric Repair Plan. They sent out Mr Sonny form your company. He didn't just do the job from the work order then leave. He listened to me then explained to me my options. After he finished we when over it to my satisfaction and he offered some valuable suggestions to help me in the future. He left my home clean and he was courteous and professional.
Thank you
jmhbw
