Christmas Tree Lighting - Stay Safe and Sound

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steven_Watson,_Ph.D.]Steven Watson, Ph.D.

The Christmas tree is one of the most durable symbols of the holiday season - and you will seldom see a decorated tree without strings of bright, colorful lights. People can be very creative with lighting to add "personality" to their Christmas trees, which is what makes each one unique.

There are some definite things to avoid when it comes to Christmas tree lighting.

1. Don't use a simple power extension cord to power your decorative lighting strands. This will elevate the amount of electricity used which may cause damage to the cord and will reduce the life of the lighting strands. Instead, use an outlet power breaker strip.
2. Never plug an extension cord into another extension. This a real fire hazard and will shorten the life of your lighting strands. Place your tree where there are at least 2 outlets present so that all of the power is not coming from one outlet.
3. Check your lighting strands carefully before putting them on the tree. If a strand is frayed or one of the lights is damaged, dispose of it and use a new one.
4. When putting the lighting strands on the tree, be very careful not to put ornaments or other items too close to the light bulbs. Some ornaments are combustible and will create a fire if not handled carefully.
5. Reduce the changes of fire by considering the use of LCD lights because they produce very little heat, their epoxy lenses are virtually indestructible, and they are also more energy efficient.
6. Never purchase lights that do not have a UL (Underwriters Laboratories) rating, which means they have been tested in a registered laboratory.
7. Never use nails or staples to attach lighting strands to the tree.
8. Keep children away from Christmas lights. If not handled carefully, lighting strands can cause a shock or a fire to occur.
9. Don't use any light bulb replacement, but use only those recommended by the manufacturer. Replacement bulbs that have incorrect voltage or wattage can be a fire hazard.
10. Don't leave the Christmas tree lights on when unattended to avoid the risk of fire, including when the family goes to bed for the night or when going out.

Christmas tree decorating can be one of the most enjoyable things to do, especially when doing it safely. Tree lighting can add brightness and warmth to any room. However, it is important to take these steps into consideration so that everyone will remain safe and sound.

This article was written by Steven Watson, PhD who specializes in creating useful information products on a wide range of issues. Most fires during the Christmas season are caused by problems with natural Christmas trees. Check out http://christmastreesafetytips-steve.blogspot.com/ if you want to know more about how to care for a natural Christmas tree and keep your holiday safe.

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