The holiday season brings family, food and festive decorations, but it can also bring added demands on your home's electrical system. Before you plug in holiday lights, decorations and other seasonal equipment, take a few minutes to make sure your electrical system is ready.
    Start with your holiday lights and decorations. Inspect cords for cuts, frayed wires, loose connections or other damage. Throw away damaged strings rather than trying to repair them. Use lights and extension cords that are rated for their intended location, especially when decorating outdoors. Outdoor decorations should be plugged into outlets protected by ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs.
    Be careful not to overload outlets. Plugging multiple power strips or extension cords into one another can create a serious fire hazard. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for how many light strings can safely be connected. Keep electrical cords away from heat sources, water and areas where they could become a tripping hazard.
    If you are using a portable generator during a power outage, operate it outdoors in a well-ventilated area at least 20 feet from your home and away from doors, windows and vents. Never operate a generator inside a garage, basement or other enclosed space. Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless gas that can be deadly.
    The holidays are also a good time to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Test each device and replace batteries as needed. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do if an alarm sounds.
    A little preparation can help keep holiday celebrations safe and enjoyable. Before decorating, take a walk around your home and look for potential electrical hazards. If you have questions about an electrical problem or are unsure whether something is safe to use, contact a qualified electrician or your local electric utility.
    Safe electrical practices are a simple way to help ensure your holiday memories are about family and celebration, not an electrical emergency.