16 Oct
It’s the time of year to stock up on candy and decorate the home with decorations in preparation for Halloween! CORE urges everyone to make sure you and your costumed visitors are kept safe by avoiding potential safety hazards:
• Use only lights that have been safety tested and approved by Underwriters Laboratory (UL). Look for the UL label on the box and on each string.
• Make sure extension cords are in good condition.
• Before plugging in the lights, check each string for broken sockets, frayed cords, or faulty plugs. Replace damaged strings.
• Keep electric cords out of high-traffic areas.
• Don’t staple or nail through light strings or electrical cords.
• Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold light strings in place, not nails or tacks.
• Do not attach cords or lights to metal objects.
• Use only lights and cords rated for outdoor use if using outdoors.
• Cords should be plugged into outlets equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Use a portable GFCI if your outdoor outlets don’t have them.
• Always unplug lights before going to bed or leaving your home.
• Do not run electrical cords across sidewalks or other walkway areas that could trip or endanger trick-or-treaters.