Outdoor Holiday Lights Tips from Beach Landscaping
‘Tis the Season… to show your holiday spirit by decorating your home with holiday lights
Some of my favorite holiday time memories are driving through the neighborhood at night to see the houses which were decorated for Christmas. For a child it is a magical experience – the lights, the decorations, possibly songs playing all stay in our memories forever.
There are some neighborhoods that have taken decorating to new heights with one house after another trying to out do the next. It adds up to a beautiful street, shimmering and shining in the dark of the evening. One of my favorite memories is a home that actually had Santa come and sit in his chair on the front lawn for us to whisper our desperate plea for the MUST have gift.
For all this magic there are some tips to keep your home and family safe. Hanging lights is an art form on one hand and a potential for disaster on the other. If you follow these tips you will be well on the way for a safe outdoor holiday decor.
Do not hang lights close to dry leaves or branches. The do give off heat which has the potential to start a fire. 
Check the connections on the electrical cords and between the strands. If there is a break or fraying issue those lights should be discarded.
Do not overload your circuits – rule of thumb is no more than 1400 watts per circuit
Safety First! Only use lights with the UL (Underwriters Laboratories) label and be sure you’re using lights designed specifically for outdoor use.
Only use extension cords designed for outdoor use.
Turn lights off when going to sleep or have the lights on a timer to go on and off at a particular time.
Do not go old school – there are better ways to hang lights than staples and nails. Clips and electrical tape are a much safer option
Make sure you’re using a sturdy ladder and have a ‘spotter’ with you.
Enjoy!
Images from Pinterest – there are 100’s of ideas to help you create your dream.
