Holiday light displays add so much beauty and excitement to this time of year. Holiday lights can also pose a danger and be a hazard if not handled properly. Here are some practices to follow to ensure a safe but brilliantly lit holiday season.

• Check light strands for any imperfections such as cords that have cracked or the ends have frayed.
• If using a real tree, make sure it is well watered. A dry tree combined with a short in a strand of Christmas lights can be deadly.
• New types of lights have fused plugs which help prevent sparking in the event of a light short circuiting. Take the time to dispense of older lights and invest in newer lights that are safer.
• Replace burnt out bulbs but ensure they are the right wattage. It's smart to keep a list of what wattage go with which bulbs.
• Outdoor lights have to deal with precipitation and debris that can get into the sockets so make sure that outdoor lights are plugged into a ground fault circuit interrupter outlet. These can help reduce the risk of shorts and shocks in outdoor lights.
• Extension cords CAN and WILL overheat – check them periodically to make sure they are in good condition.
• When hanging lights, it's a good idea to use insulated hooks. Using screws or nails can puncture light strands and cables.
• If running extension cords along the ground, make sure to elevate plugs and connectors with a brick to keep precipitation and debris out of the connections. Also, remember to tape down any ground-level extensions cords to prevent people from tripping over them. 
• Make sure that outdoor lights are for the outdoors. Indoor lights are not made to withstand the elements of being outside. So, make sure the lights are for the outside before hanging.
• Put the lights on a timer and make sure that the lights are turned off when not home or asleep.
• When storing lights, make sure to put them in a well-sealed container to prevent possible water damage and bugs or animals that could chew and damage the cords.

Following safety tips will make for a happy holiday for all!