NOT only will you annoy your neighbours by keeping up your Christmas lights until July, you may be putting your home in danger.
CSA International, a leader in product testing and certification services, commissioned a survey that found 25 per cent of Canadians leave their lights up for months after the holidays, potentially leading to residential fires.
So get off your duff, grab a ladder and follow these tips, courtesy of CSA International:
-- Take them down: remove outdoor lights promptly after the holidays (e.g. this weekend) to avoid damage caused by prolonged exposure to harsh weather conditions.
-- Check and re-check: inspect holiday light strings every year.
-- Out with the old: discard light strings with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders or loose connections.
-- Safe storage: wrap and store lights and decorations in their original packaging, as they likely contain manufacturer's instructions on replacement bulbs and details for proper product use.
-- If you already tossed the box, coil them up, place them in a different box, label it and store it with the rest of your seasonal decor.
-- Postmedia News
