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Holiday lights and inflatable decorations can add so much ambiance to the inside and outside of your home.

Follow these tips to keep your home safe when using holiday lights:

  • Use lights as intended: indoor for indoor use only, and outdoor for outdoor use only.
  • Look for the UL safety rating on all electrical decorations. This ensures that they have been tested for safety hazards.
  • Throw away light strings that are cracked or have exposed or loose wires.
  • Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house, walls or other firm support to protect from wind damage.
  • Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord.
  • Turn off all lights on trees and other decorations when you go to bed or leave the house. Lights could short and start a fire.
  • Prevent electrical cord damage.Don’t mount lights in a way that might damage the cords, and avoid using nails or tacks. Use hooks or insulated staples instead.
  • Secure your inflatable decorations so that they don’t blow away during a storm.
  • When stringing lights and decorations above your normal reach, make sure you use a proper ladder with someone supporting the base.

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Even More Ways To Avoid Holiday Disasters

  • Don’t burn wrapping paper in the fireplace. Paper can catch fire very quickly and can cause flash fires. Instead, recycle (or better yet, reuse!) your wrapping paper.
  • Remove all wrapping papers from your tree and fireplace areas immediately after presents are opened.
  • Keep candles on a sturdy base to prevent tipping. Never leave a lit candle unattended.
  • Avoid decorations that look like candy or food if you have young children — or pets — in the house.
  • Beware of poisonous plants. While festive, poinsettias are poisonous when eaten, so keep them out of reach of kids and pets.
  • Never place trimming near open flames or electrical connections.

Wishing You a Safe Holiday Filled With Love and Happiness.

Of course, if you have any questions about your insurance, be sure to give us a call! GDI Insurance Agency Inc. – 209-634-2929