Crime & Safety

Holiday, Decorations and Fires - Not a Good Holiday Mix

Christmas Lighting Safety Tips

Fairfax County government shares lots of great tips for the neighbors. Beginning today every Saturday through the holiday season, we'll publish these tips. Let us know if you find them helpful.

The holiday season is a festive and joyous occasion. However, it's also a dangerous part of the year; over 400 lives are claimed, more than 1,600 injuries occur, and over $990 million in property damage is lost.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, taking simple, common-sense, life-saving steps will help ensure a safe and happy holiday. By taking some easy precautions, residents can greatly reduce their chances of becoming a holiday fire casualty.

The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department sends along these Lighting Safety Tips:

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  • Look for Underwriters Laboratories label on all holiday light sets to ensure UL standards are met.
  • Buy lighting sets according to indoor use, outdoor use, or both.
  • Before attaching lights, check for fraying wires, damaged sockets, or cracked insulation. If defects are found, replace the entire set.
  • To minimize fire and shock danger, make sure a bulb is in each socket. If a bulb burns out, leave it in and unplug the light set--then replace the bulb.
  • Don't connect more light strings than the manufacturer recommends.
  • Keep indoor extension cords and lights away from water.
  • All outdoor cords, plugs, and sockets must be weatherproof.
  • As a final precaution, make sure you have a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, and ensure you have an escape plan, and practice it.


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