How to Prevent Electrical Hazards During Holiday Decorating

It’s that time of year again. The days grow shorter, strings of lights twinkle on rooftops, and cozy decorations fill every corner of the house. But with every extra light and plug-in reindeer, the risk of electrical hazards quietly increases. No one wants a holiday memory ruined by a blown fuse—or worse, an electrical fire.

At Heintz Electric, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly joy can turn to chaos when safety takes a back seat. That’s why we’re sharing practical, easy-to-follow advice to keep your celebrations bright—and safe.

Holiday Hazards: The Usual Suspects 🎄

The holidays come with their own set of electrical pitfalls. Awareness is your first line of defense.

• Overloaded Circuits: It's tempting to plug every strand of lights into one outlet. But every circuit has its limits. Overloads can cause breakers to trip or, in the worst cases, wires to overheat and start fires.
• Damaged Extension Cords: Frayed, cracked, or pinched cords are like open doors for electrical faults. Even a small nick in the insulation can put your whole home at risk.
• Unsafe or Old Lights: Vintage lights might look charming, but old or uncertified strands can have worn wires or loose connections.
• Improper Outdoor Use: Using indoor lights outside exposes them to moisture and weather—never a good combo with electricity.
• Temporary Fixes That Become Permanent: Temporary solutions like running cords under carpets are dangerous, especially with foot traffic and pets.

It’s a bit like stacking gifts too high on a rickety table—eventually, it’s bound to topple.

Safe Decorating Tips for Every Home

A few simple steps can make all the difference between a safe, sparkling holiday and a potential hazard.

1. Check Before You Plug

Before hanging any lights, inspect every cord and plug. Look for cuts, melted spots, or exposed wires. If you spot damage—no matter how minor—replace it.

2. Stick to the Right Outlets

Use only grounded outlets for major displays. Outdoor decorations need GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets. These outlets cut power instantly if they sense a problem, reducing shock risk.

3. Avoid Daisy-Chaining

Plugging one power strip into another? That’s a recipe for overload. Stick to one per outlet, and never exceed the wattage rating.

4. Use Certified Products

Look for UL, CSA, or ETL certification marks. These show your lights and cords meet national safety standards.

5. Keep Cords Clear

Don’t run cords under rugs or across doorways. They can overheat or become trip hazards.

6. Moisture and Electricity Don’t Mix

If a storm is brewing or snow is in the forecast, double-check that your outdoor connections are weatherproof. Use covers designed for outdoor outlets.

7. Surge Protection for Peace of Mind

Winter storms and power surges don’t care about your decorations. Surge protectors add a vital layer of safety, shielding both your holiday lights and valuable electronics. For whole-home solutions, see our Surge Protection service.

8. Limit the Load

Don’t exceed 80% of any circuit’s total wattage. If you’re not sure, consult your breaker panel or ask an electrician.

When to Call a Pro

Not every job is a DIY project. Sometimes, it’s safer—and smarter—to let a professional handle the heavy lifting.

• Flickering Lights: If your decorations cause lights to dim or flicker, your system might be overloaded.
• Warm Outlets or Plugs: Heat is a sign something’s wrong. Unplug and call for help.
• Old Wiring: Homes built before the 1980s may not handle modern loads. An Safety Checks can bring things up to code.
• Large Displays: Planning a yard full of lights or animated decorations? Get advice from an electrician before you start.

Our team at Heintz Electric is always on call for electrical safety inspections, troubleshooting, and upgrades. For those in Delaware, our Safety Checks page offers more details on how a professional can help keep your celebrations hazard-free.

Quick Safety Checklist

• Inspect all lights and cords before use
• Use surge protectors for valuable devices
• Don’t overload outlets or power strips
• Use outdoor-rated products outside
• Keep extension cords away from walkways
• Turn off all decorations before bed or leaving home

A little caution goes a long way.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Warning Signs: That faint burning smell? Don’t brush it off.
• Overusing Old Decor: Lights from decades past may not meet today’s safety standards.
• Improper Ladder Use: Always keep ladders clear of overhead power lines.
• Rushing the Job: Take your time, especially when stringing lights in tricky spots.

Prevention & Maintenance

Regular maintenance keeps both your holidays and your home running smoothly. Schedule annual safety checks and keep an eye out for any signs of trouble throughout the season.

• Replace lights and cords every few years
• Upgrade old outlets to GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoors
• Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors near living spaces
• Invest in Surge Protection for year-round defense

DIY or Professional Help?

If you know your way around basic electrical safety, simple tasks like swapping out lights or using a surge protector are safe to DIY. But if your plans involve new outlets, advanced lighting, or significant upgrades, calling an electrician is the safest move.

What Happens When a Pro Arrives

Heintz Electric’s team takes a systematic approach:

1. Inspect your current setup for code compliance.
2. Test circuits and outlets for load capacity.
3. Identify hazards—overloads, damaged wiring, faulty breakers.
4. Recommend improvements or safe installation practices.

Our goal? Peace of mind, so you can focus on what matters—enjoying the season.

Signs of Trouble

Watch for these red flags:

• Circuit breakers tripping repeatedly
• Lights that flicker or dim unexpectedly
• Outlets that feel warm to the touch
• Unusual buzzing or sizzling sounds

If you spot any of these, unplug decorations and contact a qualified electrician.

The Cost of Safety

Preventive measures are far less expensive than the cost of repairs after a fire or electrical mishap. Think of surge protection, safety checks, and professional installation as insurance for your holiday cheer.

Seasonal Considerations

Snow and ice create extra hazards. Always clear walkways before working outside. Secure cords away from water. And remember, outdoor displays should be rated for cold and wet conditions.

Materials & Equipment

• Weatherproof extension cords (for outdoor use)
• Certified surge protectors
• GFCI outlets for outdoor setups
• LED holiday lights (they run cooler and use less power)
• Outdoor outlet covers

Timeline & Disruption

A typical safety check or surge protector installation takes just a couple of hours. Plan ahead—don’t wait until the week before your big party.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use indoor lights outdoors?
A: Never. Indoor lights aren’t designed for moisture or temperature swings.

Q: How many light strands can I connect?
A: Check the packaging, but most recommend no more than three sets end-to-end.

Q: Is it okay to run extension cords through windows?
A: Avoid it. Doors and windows can pinch cords, damaging insulation.

A Bright, Safe Holiday Starts with Preparation

The holidays should be magical—not marred by electrical mishaps. A little preparation, a few smart investments, and knowing when to call a pro can make all the difference.

Ready for a safe season?
Call Heintz Electric now — or reach us anytime at  877-315-8745 .