It’s almost that time of year when tiny ghosts, mermaids, and goblins will go from house to house in search of treats. These simple precautions can help ensure Halloween remains fun and fire safe for everyone.
Did you know? Americans will spend nearly $10 billion on Halloween decorations each year, according to industry reports. So if you’re among those purchasing plug-in decorations for the holiday, consider our safety tips to avoid scary shocks and fire hazards.
Home Fires Caused by Holiday Decorations:
- From 2017–2021 there was an average of 790 home structure fires that began with decorations per year. These fires caused an annual average of 4 civilian fire deaths, 33 civilian fire injuries, and $14 million in direct property damage.
- Nearly half (48%) of these fires occurred because the decorations were too close to a heat source, such as a candle or hot equipment.
- Approximately one-third (33%) of these fires were started by candles.
Source: NFPA Research Division. Read more about home fire safety from NFPA
11 Halloween Electrical Safety Tips To Keep Everyone Safe:
- Choose decorations, costumes, and accessories, that are made with flame-resistant, flame-retardant, or non-combustible materials.
- Before you start decorating, inspect each electrical item and discard any that are damaged.
- For added safety, use battery-operated candles to light your jack-o-lanterns and spooky decorations.
- Outdoor electrical decorations should be plugged into a GFCI receptacle. Find out more about the importance of GFCI Ground Fault Receptacles.
- Use only UL-Approved lights.
- Keep electric cords out of high-traffic areas, where they can be a tripping hazard to trick-or-treaters.
- Always use safety-approved electrical decorations bought from a reputable retailer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Don’t overload your electrical circuits with decorations, this can lead to a fire.
- Light pathways well enough for everyone to walk safely.
- Remember to switch off your electrical decorations before you leave the house or go to bed.
- Make sure that your Smoke Alarms are active and working.
Our team at Electri-Serve is dedicated to keeping your family safe during this season, and all throughout the year.
Contact us if you have any concerns about the electrical safety in and around your home . Call us at 303-892-0027 or use our online contact form.
