Avoid Electrical Hazards at Halloween

The decorative lights, fog machines, black lights, and animatronics of Halloween make for adventurous, entertaining times for children and adults. With these decorations, though, the risk of fire or electrocution could be lurking around the corner. It is important to check for electrical hazards before accidents happen. Use the following tips to keep electrical hazards from haunting you this Halloween:
• Inspect electrical decorations. Look for cracked or frayed sockets, loose or bare wires, and loose connections.
• Read manufacturer’s instructions regarding installation and maintenance. Check the instructions to see how many light  strings can be connected together.
• Always unplug light strings before replacing any bulbs.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, walls or other firm supports. Do not use nails or tacks that could puncture light  strings or electrical/extension cords.
• Provide well-lit walkways and porch lighting for trick-or-treaters. Make sure the walkways are clear for trick-or-treaters.
• Don’t overload extension cords or place them near, or in, snow or water.
• Make sure electrical decorations are approved by a nationally recognized certification organization like “UL” (Underwriters  Laboratory) and marked for outdoor use if you are using them outside. Check www.cpsc.gov or www.ul.com for recalls. Many  Halloween toys have been recalled in the past by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).
• Do not overload your circuit breakers or fuses.
• Plug lights and decorations into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can  be purchased where electrical supplies are sold.
• Make sure decorative lighting is well-ventilated, protected from weather and a safe distance from anything flammable like  dry leaves and shrubs. Do not coil power cords or extension cords while in use or tuck under rugs or drapes.
• Turn out all lights and decorations before leaving or going to bed. Always have at least one fire extinguisher available and  know how to use it.
Sources: Home Safety Council, www.homesafetycouncil.org; Electrical Safety Foundation International, www.electrical-safety.org