Holidays such as Christmas and Halloween are a cherished time of year for many Calgarians to gather and celebrate with family and friends. Decorating for these holidays is a wonderful tradition that allows us to add a bright and festive element to our homes.

And while taking down your Halloween decorations or removing your christmas lights is never fun, it is important to ensure that they are stored properly and safely when the holidays are over.

Why Timely Halloween/Christmas Light Removal is so Important

While they are festive and fun, holiday lights are not intended for year-round, outdoor use. In fact, it is recommended that most only be used for up to 90 days a year.

In addition to unwanted clutter and a shortened shelf-life, prolonging Halloween or Christmas light removal can leave wires unnecessarily exposed to the elements, increasing the risk of electrical and fire hazards.

In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, in any given year, approximately 150 homes are involved in fires caused by holiday lights. On average, there are 8 deaths, 14 injuries and millions of dollars worth of property damage due to these occurrences.

How to Safely Remove Your Christmas Or Halloween Lights

• Make sure you completely remove all exterior lights after the holiday
  Lights and extension cords kept outside can become damaged by harsh weather and create a fire hazard. Even if you remove the power to your Christmas lights and keep them up, exposure to the elements can make them more dangerous to use the next year.
• Follow Safe Halloween/Christmas Light Removal Practices
  Before working on any outdoor holiday lights, unplug all electrical connections.  If you need to use a ladder, ensure the footing is stable and watch out for any ice or uneven ground.
• Always Inspect Your Lights
  When removing your Christmas or Halloween lights, do so gently and make sure to inspect them carefully. If you find them damaged with frayed wires or burnt-out bulbs, replace them.
• Wrap and Store Your Lights
  Always wrap and store your lights in the original packaging as this contains directions for proper product use. Make sure to organize them neatly as this will save you both time and storage space.
• Keep Them In an Appropriate Place
  Always keep your holiday lights in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children, until you are ready to use them again next year.

Want to Learn More?

To learn more about safe Halloween and Christmas light removal practices, contact Chinook Exteriors at 587-999-7170 or book a consultation today.