Absolute Electric INC

Holiday Electrical Safety Tips for Vancouver Washington

Absolute Electric, INC. wants to remind you to keep these safety tips in mind as your Christmas lights go up:

• Anything that is installed outdoors that needs power must be GFCI protection via a cord, plug outlet or breaker.
• Install bubble covers on outdoor plug outlets to keep water from reaching the plug outlet.
• Do not overload plug outlets with lots of cords and lights. Doing so can cause the plug outlet to overheat and possibly case a fire.
• When using ladders to install lights. ALWAYS LOOK UP FIRST. Make sure no power lines are over head of you.
• When using ladders make sure your on stable ground and do not stand on the very top.
• Do not plug in lights or lighted decorations while doing the set-up. Not only can you get shocked but also risk falling off a ladder.
• Keep extension cords to a minimum. Keep the cords out of the walkways so people will not trip over them.
• Only use outdoor rated lights when outdoors. (See all the time indoor lighting used in outdoor applications).
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use the proper in-line fuses. Over sizing the fuses will cause the wiring to over heat and cause fire.

The holidays are a fun time to enjoy friends and family. Keep it safe so all can enjoy all the hard work setting up the “Chevy Chase” Christmas show of the neighborhood.

If you are in doubt of what you’re doing is safe or correct, don’t hesitate to call us. There is never a bad question when it comes to your family and home safety. Our number is 1-360-883-3873.