Very few things are as unique to the winter holiday season as the custom of decorating your home and yard.

Findings from a 2013 ESFI consumer survey indicate that more than 86% of Americans decorate their homes as part of their winter holiday celebrations. Almost two-thirds of respondents use electric lights in their indoor decorating scheme, while more than half use lighted decorations outside their homes. More than 60% of those who decorate their homes for the holiday utilize at least one extension cord.

While holiday lighting and electrical decorations do contribute to the splendor of the season, they can also significantly increase the risk fires and electrical injuries if not used safely. Given these safety hazards, it is crucial that safety is a foremost concern.

ESFI provides these resources to help you prevent serious electrical and fire hazards while decorating your home and yard this season: