As soon as the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers are packed away, many families begin decorating for the holidays. While twinkling lights and festive displays bring joy to the season, Entergy Arkansas reminds customers that safety should always come first when decorating homes and trees.

According to the U.S. Consumer Protection Safety Commission, on average about 160 holiday-decorating-related injuries occur each day during the holiday season, and in the 2023 season (Nov. 1, 2022 – Jan. 31, 2023) roughly 14,900 people were treated in hospital emergency departments for decorating-related injuries. Nearly half of those incidents involved falls.

Following a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and bright holiday season. Here are eight tips for safer holiday lighting displays:

1. Pick the right tree. If using a live tree, choose one with fresh, green needles that don’t fall off easily. Cut about two inches from the base of the trunk before placing it in the stand, and add water daily.
2. Keep exits clear. Make sure your tree doesn’t block doorways or hallways in case of emergency.
3. Use approved lights. Only use lights tested and certified by a reputable brand. Check whether they are rated for indoor or outdoor use.
4. Inspect before you plug in. Replace any string of lights with worn, broken cords or loose bulb connections. Follow manufacturer instructions for how many strands can be safely connected.
5. Avoid sharp fasteners. Use plastic clips instead of nails, staples, or tacks to hang lights, preventing cord damage and electrical hazards.
6. Protect against shocks. Use ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets for outdoor lighting to guard against electrical shocks.
7. Turn lights off when unattended. Always unplug or turn off Christmas tree lights before going to bed or leaving home.
8. Stay weather-aware. Keep extension cords and light connections away from standing water and ensure outdoor plugs are properly covered.

For more tips on how to practice lighting and decoration safety during the holiday season, visit the National Fire Protection Association website.

About Entergy Arkansas
Entergy Arkansas, LLC provides electricity to approximately 735,000 customers in 63 counties. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation. Entergy produces, transmits and distributes electricity to power life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. We’re investing for growth and improved reliability and resilience of our energy system while working to keep energy rates affordable for our customers. We’re also investing in cleaner energy generation like modern natural gas, nuclear and renewable energy. A nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship, we deliver more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to the communities we serve through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is a Fortune 500 company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergyarkansas.com and connect with @EntergyARK on social media. Entergy Arkansas is a subsidiary of Entergy Corporation NYSE: ETR.

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Lamor Williams
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