Sierra Pacific Power Company
Contact: Gary Aldax
Phone: (775) 834-5508

For Immediate Release

Sierra Pacific Power reminds customers to practice safety when hanging lights this holiday season. The following simple electrical safety tips will help when decorating with lights:

• Only use light and extension cords labeled as safe for outdoor use.
• Use one longer extension cord instead of linking several shorter ones together.
• Keep metal ladders away from overhead power lines.
• Avoid stapling or nailing electrical cords because it may damage insulation.
• To prevent falls, keep extension cords off the walkways.
• When stringing lights, either inside or outside, always unplug the cord first.
• Be careful not to overload an electrical outlet. Overloading can cause overheating and lead to a fire.
• Do not use two-prong adapters in three prong outlets.
• Before leaving home, or going to bed, always turn off all decorative lights.
• Make sure outdoor electrical outlets have shock- protecting, ground fault circuit interrupters, especially around metallic and wet surfaces.
• Check for cut or frayed wiring on extension cords and light strings. Do not use if damaged.
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