Here’s how to stay safe when putting up Christmas lights and avoid Christmas-related injuries

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Christmas is just around the corner and that means many people will be decorating trees and their own homes with lights. But there are a few things you’ll want to know before you get started.

Newport News Fire Department leaders say they see an influx of calls during the holidays, in part due to problems with Christmas lights.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says there are nearly 200 Christmas-related injuries every day during the holiday season and that accidents can sometimes be fatal.

Here are a few simple steps to take before decorating to avoid a house fire.

Energy efficiency

• Switch to LED lights. They use less energy compared to incandescent bulbs and can last up to 20 years.
• Timing is everything. Put your Christmas lights and outdoor electric decorations on a timer. This way, there is no risk of forgetting to turn it off when you go to bed.

• Think about your options. Instead of adding more lights to your tree, brighten up the existing lighting with tinsel, mirrored ornaments, and other reflective items.

  “When setting up your lighting, be sure not to overload any surge protectors by connecting extension cords to the surge protectors,” said Chief Wesley Rogers of the Newport News Fire Department.

A demonstration by the Consumer Product Safety Commission shows how dangerous a dry tree can be. The video shows a tree that was regularly watered. Thirty seconds after lighting it just smolders.
The tree on the other side is dry. The flames spread quickly and within seconds the room is ablaze.

Experts also recommend making sure your live tree gets enough water to prevent it from drying out and becoming an additional fire hazard.