Get matched with top holiday decorators in Mount Vernon, MO

There are several ways to hang Christmas lights safely. Here are some key Christmas light safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always use Christmas lights and extension cords that are rated for outdoor use.

• Don’t overload outlets by plugging in too many lights.

• Opt for LED lights for a safer display that saves on energy costs.

• Do not use old or broken Christmas lights.

If you need to visually inspect your Christmas lights to determine which are good and which need replacement, there are a few things to look for. First, look for discoloration, such as a dark spot or two on the inside of the glass. The spot is an indication of a burnt filament. Also, look for missing filaments, cracked bulb glass, and broken sockets.

If you need help with your holiday decorating, the first step is determining your lighting and decor needs to narrow down your pro options. For example, if you want a custom outdoor light display with all of the bells and whistles, you’ll likely need to hire a local holiday light installer who specializes in that service. But if you only need to hang some lights inside in hard-to-reach places, consider hiring a handyperson or an interior decorator instead. It’s best to contact at least three different companies for quotes and to find out what services they offer.

Several options for hanging Christmas lights won't damage gutters. Using shingle clips avoids any hardware contact with them, and using plastic gutter clips minimizes the likelihood of scratching gutters. Remember not to rest a ladder, especially a metal one, against the gutters, and use a ladder stand-off device or stabilizer if you need to use an extension ladder.