Holiday Lighting Safety Tips for Sarasota Homeowners
Keep Your Home Bright and Safe This Season
The holiday season brings beautiful lights, festive decorating, and gatherings with family and friends. But before you start hanging string lights or setting up yard displays, it is important to make sure your electrical system can safely handle the extra power demand. With Sarasota’s humidity and occasional late-season storms, taking a few simple precautions can help keep your home safe and your holidays stress free.
Check Your Lights and Cords Before Using Them
Before decorating, inspect all light strands, extension cords, and decorations for cracks, fraying, or exposed wiring. Even one damaged wire can cause a short or spark that leads to a fire. If anything looks worn or questionable, replace it instead of trying to repair it.
Use Outdoor Rated Lights and Extension Cords
Only use lights and extension cords labeled for outdoor use when decorating outside. Outdoor rated products are designed to withstand moisture, temperature changes, and Florida’s humidity. Indoor cords used outside can break down quickly and become hazardous.
Avoid Overloading Outlets
Plugging too many decorations into one outlet or power strip increases the risk of tripping breakers and overheating circuits. Spread lighting across different circuits when possible, and consider using LED holiday lights, which use significantly less electricity.
Keep Lights Away from Water and Metal
If you are decorating near pools, patios, or metal surfaces, make sure your lighting is properly mounted and protected. Water and exposed wiring are a dangerous combination. Outdoor GFCI outlets help reduce shock risk and should be installed where needed.
Consider a Pre-Season Electrical Check
If your home is older, has a history of flickering lights, or you plan to go big with holiday lighting, scheduling a quick electrical inspection is a smart precaution. A licensed electrician can confirm that your panel and circuits are ready to handle increased demand safely.
For safe and reliable electrical support in Sarasota, trust Bolt Electric.
Their team can help with inspections, GFCI outlet installation, panel upgrades, and all your holiday electrical needs.


















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