Each year, when the holidays roll around, we are reminded of some of our clients who experienced or were displaced by holiday light accidents and fires. While decorating with lights is one of the best ways to create holiday cheer, it’s important to keep safety in mind when hanging those sparkling displays. These key tips can help ensure that your holiday light setup is beautiful and safe! CHECK LIGHTS FOR DAMAGE Before you start decorating, inspect all of your holiday lights, new or used. Look for frayed wires, broken sockets, and other signs of heavy wear. Damaged lights are fire hazards, so it’s important to replace or fix them before use. Also, check for proper certification labels indicating the lights meet safety standards. USE OUTDOOR LIGHTS FOR OUTDOOR DISPLAYS It’s tempting to use whatever lights you have on hand, but indoor and outdoor lights are not interchangeable. Outdoor lights are designed to withstand the elements, while indoor lights may not be weatherproof and can pose a fire or electrical risk if used outside. Always check the packaging to be sure you’re using lights designed for outdoor use in your exterior displays. AVOID OVERLOADING ELECTRICAL CIRCUITS When stringing multiple strands of lights together, be mindful of the power load on your electrical circuits. Most light strands will specify the maximum number of strands that can be connected safely. Overloading your circuits can lead to electrical failures or even fires, so spread your lights across different outlets if necessary and use extension cords designed for outdoor use. USE TIMERS AND LED LIGHTS If possible, switch to LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs. LED lights are more energy-efficient, last longer, and generate less heat. Thus, they reduce the risk of overheating or creating a fire. Using timers to turn your lights on and off automatically also helps conserve energy and ensures that your lights aren’t left on for extended periods, which could overheat wiring. BE MINDFUL WHEN HANGING LIGHTS Always use a sturdy ladder when hanging lights on your roof or in high places. Avoid decorating in wet or icy conditions, which can increase the risk of slips and falls. Keep extension cords away from walkways and high-traffic areas to prevent tripping. DECK THE HALLS SAFELY!
The holidays are here, and Len loves his sweets! With its soft, buttery texture and just the right amount of sweetness, this sugar cookie recipe is a crowd-pleaser! SOFT AND CHEWY HOLIDAY SUGAR COOKIES Inspired by AllRecipes.com
INGREDIENTS • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1 cup butter, softened • 1 1/2 cups white sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp vanilla extract DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 2. Stir flour, baking soda, and baking powder together in a small bowl and set aside. 3. Beat sugar and butter together in a large bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. 4. Beat in egg and vanilla. 5. Gradually blend in flour mixture. 6. Roll dough into walnut-sized balls and place 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets. 7. Bake until edges are golden, 8 to 10 minutes. 8. Let cool on the baking sheets briefly, then move cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
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