The celebration of the season brings with it increased use of electric lights. Follow these general precautions to prevent unwanted fires and injuries:

Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, bare spots, gaps in the insulation, broken or cracked sockets, and excessive kinking or wear before putting them up.

Lights should not be used with empty bulb sockets.

Only use lighting listed by an approved testing laboratory (UL).

Do not overload electrical outlets.

Do not link more than three light strands, unless the directions indicate it is safe.

Connect strings of lights to an extension cord before plugging the cord into the outlet.

Make sure to check the wires periodically; they should not be warm to the touch.

Lights and decorations used outdoors should be approved for outdoor use.

Always turn lights off when leaving home or going to bed.