Haunt Through the Night with These Halloween Electricity Tips

As we fall into spooky season, orange and purple lights as well as ghostly lawn decorations are popping up left and right, all thanks to fully functional electricity. With Halloween just around the corner, it’s important to be aware of possible electrical hazards to avoid any dampers on your frightful festivities.  

 

In this article, our electrical experts dive into tips to keep you, your family, and trick-or-treaters safe and your decorations doing their jobs this Halloween season. Let’s go! 

 

Two skeleton decorations in a yard of electrical lights Halloween decoration

 

Setup Your Electrical Decorations Safely  

 

There is a lot to keep track of as Halloween approaches, from stocking up on sweet treats to planning costumes for the whole family. While all of this fun may occupy the majority of your thoughts, safety should always be your number one priority. 

 

Did you know that in a span of 4 years, NFPA research suggested that 770 house fires were caused by improperly set up Halloween decorations? Without the proper safety precautions, one simple mistake could make this Fall feel like a real-life horror movie.  

 

When setting up your decorations, make sure to add these to your checklist: 

  • Inspect all cords for splitting, fraying, and any other damage  

  • If you discover damage, replace the decorations  

  • Clear debris away from outlets and ensure your decorations are either waterproof or safe in case of stormy weather  

  • Organize cables and cords so that trick-or-treaters won’t trip over them  

 

Protect Your Outlets with GFCIs 

 

Before plugging in your decorations, have ground-fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs installed by our professionals at Axiom Power. These gadgets will make sure that your power shuts off in case electricity somehow manages to leak past your wiring insulation. Without GFCIs, you’re risking severe electric shock, fires, and burns. 

 

With an electrical inspection and GFCI installation, you will ensure there are no live wires that your family or guests may stumble upon and you dramatically reduce health and fire hazards. Your local electrician will help you decide what GFCI options are best for you.  

 

Learn More > Electrical Upgrades Around the House for Fall 

 

Place Your Décor Appropriately  

 

Many Halloween decorations contain fabric or paper components such as cornstalks, dried flowers, cobwebs, and more. Make sure any of these kinds of decorations are placed far away from power outlets or poorly insulated wiring. If your décor uses a battery, make sure it is properly contained to avoid overheating or leakage. 

 

Additionally, make sure your decorations are safe for various weather conditions. While we recommend opting for faux flames, make sure if you’re using fire that it is clear of any surrounding flammable items.  

Don’t Overload Your Outlets  

 

There’s nothing more exciting than a yard full of spooky décor with frightening noises, creepy lighting, and motion-activated monsters. However, don’t mistake power strips for more juice. This time of year, it’s easy to overload your outlets and create a hazard if you aren’t careful.  

 

Here are some signs your outlets may be overloaded and it’s time to unplug some devices or upgrade your circuits: 

 

  • Flicker, blinking, or dimming lights 

  • Electrical receptacles are warm to the touch or discolored 

  • Burning smells 

  • Frequently tripping circuits, especially when the same devices are turned on  

 

Prevent overloaded circuits with these tips: 

 

  • Don’t plug multiple large appliances into the same extension cord or power strip- they each need an outlet 

  • Avoid using too many extension cords 

  • Call your local electrician to determine how many devices you can safely power 

 

Yard electrical lights for Halloween decoration Jack-o-lanterns

 

Electrical Projects Are Nothing to Fear with Axiom Power 

 

If you don’t know what you’re doing, electrical tasks and issues can be – let's face it – scary! Don’t let fear keep you from going big with Halloween decorations this year. If you follow the above tips from the Axiom Power team, you can ensure your home is safe from any real electrical threats. Instead, you can focus on playing pretend with ghosts and ghouls!    

 

If you have any doubts about what your outlets can safely handle or if your décor is set up properly, call our Tampa and Orlando-based electricians. Whether you are decorating your home or your business, our team of electrical experts will guarantee that your home is chillingly safe!  

 

Give us a call at (813) 308-9328 for residential needs or (727) 687-4452 for commercial needs! 

Gregory Bennett