News Release APS Holiday Light Safety

As Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season, Arizona homes will soon glow with festive lights and decorations. While these traditions bring joy, they also can pose serious risks. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSFC) reports thousands of injuries each holiday season from mishaps involving lights and ladders, and the National Fire Protection Association warns that electrical issues contribute to nearly one-third of Christmas tree fires 

According to the CPSC, approximately 18,400 people nationwide visit emergency rooms for decoration-related injuries, with incidents peaking the two weekends following Thanksgiving. Nearly 50% of these injuries involve falls, often from ladders. Ladders and roofs are not the only places to practice caution. Plenty of people take a tumble while standing on chairs. 

Fire hazards also rise during the holidays. The National Fire Protection Association estimates 160 home fires annually caused by Christmas trees and 832 fires from other decorations, often linked to overloaded outlets or faulty wiring. 

APS reminds customers that safety should shine as brightly as the lights. Here are essential precautions for a safe and cheerful season: 

Outdoor displays: Stay shock-free 

• Choose the right ladder: Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder on level ground. Avoid metal ladders near electricity and keep clear of overhead power lines.
• Weather matters: Only use lights and extension cords rated for outdoor use and certified by UL or another recognized safety organization. Protect connections from rain or snow with weatherproof covers and elevate plugs off the ground.
• GFCI protection: Plug outdoor decorations into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets to prevent shock hazards.
• Avoid overloading circuits: Spread decorations across multiple circuits. Follow manufacturer guidelines for connecting light strings and consider surge-protecting power strips. 

Indoor Safety: Protect Your Home 

• Inspect before you plug in: Check every strand for frayed wires, cracked sockets, or broken bulbs. Discard damaged sets immediately.
• LED advantage: Switch to LED lights—they run cooler, use less energy, and reduce fire risk.
• Tree care: Keep live trees well-watered. Dry trees and heat from lights can ignite quickly.
• Candle caution: Opt for battery-operated candles when possible. If using real flames, keep them away from flammable items and never leave them unattended. 

 Smart Habits for Peace of Mind 

• Unplug when away: Turn off lights before bedtime or leaving home. Timers or smart plugs make this easy.
• Plan for power: Know your home’s electrical capacity. Overloaded circuits can trip breakers or spark fires.
• Emergency ready: Keep a UL-rated fire extinguisher nearby; never use water on electrical fires. 

 For more tips and resources, visit aps.com/safety.