Think Safety When  Decorating This
Holiday Season!


 It's the time of year when we drag out lights and décor, and add a festive touch indoors and out.  But don't forget a few important tips when it comes to decorating, so your home is safe AND seasonal!

   We at Chesapeake Homes remind you that safety should always play an important role in your holiday decorating.  Depending on the age of your family members, remember to not have enticing decorations that a small child could easily pull down upon themselves.  Family pets need consideration too - bows, tinsel, strands of ribbons and lights, can all look like toys to pets, so here too be sure they are looked after.  Even certain holiday plants and greenery can be dangerous if ingested by children or pets, so keep out of reach or better yet, use realistic artificial greens.

   The number one holiday accident typically begins with electricity, so pay attention to these suggestions when pulling out and putting up the lights:

•  Make sure all lights you purchase contain the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) label, which means they meet UL safety requirements.

• While you're reading labels, be sure you're buying the right set for indoor use, outdoor use, or both.

• Before decorating, check all light sets for frayed wires, damaged sockets, or cracked insulation. If you find any defects, replace the entire set.

• All outdoor cords, plugs and sockets must be weatherproof. Keep electrical connections off the ground, and make sure wiring is kept clear of drainpipes and railings to prevent any risk of shock. It's also a good idea to use a ground fault circuit interrupter on each circuit. If current leaks through frayed or damaged wires, the interrupter will shut off the lights.

• Don't overload your electrical circuits. Circuits in older homes carry a maximum of 1800 watts each. Most newer homes can handle 2400 watts each.