By: Barb Morgan, Lead Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Decorating for the holidays is so fun and filled with family traditions. Follow some simple guidelines to keep your household festive and safe during the Christmas season.
- Use lights that have been tested for safety. Look for the UL certification on the package. A red label means they can be used indoors and out; a green label means indoors only. If possible, use LED lights because they run cooler, use less energy, and last longer than regular bulbs.
- Check power cords/strips. Ensure you are not overloading them. Keep them out of reach of small children. Cover unused outlets with protective covers.
- If buying a live tree, do three tests for maximum freshness. First, the needles should resist being pulled off, and should not snap off when bent. If they fall off easy, keep looking. Second, a trunk bottom that is sticky with resin is a good sign. Finally, the limbs should be strong enough they drop only a few needles when shaken.
- Keep your live tree hydrated. Place the tree in a container that can hold an adequate water supply, and check water level daily.
- Hang ornaments with care. Keep child and pet safety in mind. Place unbreakable and nontoxic ornaments on the lowest branches. Replace metal hooks with ribbon or string.
- Use candles with caution. Be sure to blow them out when leaving the house, or going to bed. Place them out of reach of children. Keep them away from paper, curtains, bedding, or anything else combustible.
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23