15 Christmas Light Safety Tips: Be Safe in the Holidays

The holiday season brings with it the yearning to indulge in savories and light up your home with colorful holiday lights. Well, when it comes to holiday decorations and lighting, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. So, before starting with the decorations, it’s wise to get the necessary knowledge about Christmas light safety.  

We’re here to help you light up your home safely for the holidays, by offering you some handy holiday lighting safety tips. Read on… 

Before Hanging Christmas Lights 

Before putting up your Christmas lights, there are certain things you should do to make sure they are safe. 

1.Verify Proper Rating 

Bargain lights are not a great buy if they pose the risk of a fire hazard. Go for only those lights that are rated and tested by Intertek (ETL Semko) or Underwriter’s Laboratory. Strings of lights with a safety rating have clear markings on them – on the packaging as well as on labels attached to the electrical cords.  

2. Use as Directed 

Indoor holiday lights differ significantly from outdoor holiday lights. Prior to hanging lights, ensure that you’re placing the fixtures in the environment they’re built to be used. This would help you prevent any indoor or outdoor Christmas lights fire hazard.  

3. Check for Fraying 

After removing your Christmas lights from storage, check the cords for ensuring that they aren’t frayed or damaged in any way. Using lights having damaged cords can result in an electrical short. This may cause damage to your holiday decorations and other lights as well as pose the risk of fire. In case you notice any damaged light strings, discard them.  

4. Choose Locations Carefully 

Don’t hang holiday lights close to any item posing a risk of fire hazard, like fireplaces, space heaters, candles etc. Alongside, ensure that the bulbs are at a safe distance from loose paper or other types of flammable materials presenting a safety hazard.  

5. Hang Holiday Lights Carefully 

Avoid using nails, staples, or tacks for hanging your Christmas lights. Use insulated holders instead that are designed specifically for this purpose.  

After Hanging Christmas Lights 

Once your Christmas lights are in place, there are certain things you need to do.  

6. Avoid Leaving the Lights on Unattended 

Turn off your holiday lights any time you won’t be nearby to look after them. So, if you’re leaving your home for some time or going to sleep, ensure that you turn off the lights before doing so.  

Although this may seem hectic, you can find several products that simplify it, such as remote controls that let you turn off the lights by touching a button and Christmas light timers. If you tend to forget, go for an automated timer for your outdoor lighting, which illuminates your holiday decorations once it’s dark outside and switches them off at sunrise.  

7. Place candles carefully 

The flickering of warm candlelight feels quite comforting on a cozy night during the holidays. However, candles can be risky especially in homes with pets or kids prone to knocking things over accidentally. Make sure lit candles are placed above the reach of your pets and kids as well as at a safe distance from inflammable materials like wrapping paper or curtains. You can go for flameless candles instead that can eliminate the risk of fires and burns.  

8. Use LED Lighting rather than Incandescent Lights 

Although LED lights are a bit costlier, they are a better option for outdoors and indoors when it comes to safety. They work well for holiday decorations due to the low level of heat they produce. Additionally, they consume 75% less electricity and last about 25 times longer.  

9. Don’t Interchange Outdoor and Indoor Lights 

Although indoor lights may be a bit cheaper, avoid using them in place of outdoor lights. Compared to outdoor lights, indoor lights are less sealed against moisture that makes them unsafe for wet winter times. If you have doubts about the type of lighting you have, check the label or discard them and get new lights.  

10. Discard Old Lights 

Passing down holiday lighting can be nice; however, strands of old lights being used from several years can be quite dangerous. As compared to old lights, modern lights are quite safer since they consist of fused plugs that prevent sparks in case of a short circuit.  

11. Use Only Three Light Strands in each Outlet 

The number of strings of lights that can be connected together in sequence relies on the wattage of the strands as well as the house circuit’s maximum watt capacity. Figuring out what’s safe may require you doing some math. If you think you might calculate that number wrongly, try keeping each outlet to three light strands or fewer. Moreover, consider using a power strip having an inbuilt circuit breaker rather than your wall outlet for additional protection.  

12. Fasten All your Outdoor Light Strings Securely 

Outdoor Christmas light strings may be blown loose by winter storms leading to potential electrical Christmas light hazards. Fasten the lighting to firm objects such as walls or trees so that your lights are secure and stay where they belong. Additionally, fasten your indoor lights out of the reach of small children and pets to prevent any chewing mishaps, which may lead to accidental electrocution.  

13. Use Extension Cords Carefully 

If your extension cords are placed low enough for them to be surrounded by melted snow or pools of rain, outdoor lighting can create a safety risk. Make sure the cords are dry and use surge protectors for minimizing damage in the event of voltage fluctuation.  

14. Prevent your Christmas Tree from Posing the Risk of a Fire Hazard 

Unfortunately, the leading cause behind house fires in the holidays is Christmas trees. Although real trees come with their benefits, artificial trees are safer. Most of the artificial Christmas trees are made up of fire-resistant materials, which makes them safe to be decorated and lit up.  

However, in case you choose a real tree, ensure that it’s fresh while buying and you keep the tree well watered. If the tree dries out, remove it immediately as it’s not safe anymore to be kept at home.  

15. Don’t Use Electric Lights on Trees made of Metal 

Your holiday décor can sparkle with tinsel and shiny aluminum Christmas trees. However, if you choose a metallic tree, make sure you don’t use any electric lights and/or decorations on it. A metallic tree can become charged with electricity easily and give a “shock” to anyone touching it.  

 

Whether you go for simple Christmas decorations or a grand one this holiday season, your highest priority should be the safety of your home and family. Following the above Christmas light, safety tips can help you enjoy the holidays while being safe. 

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7 Trends You May Have Missed About Outdoor Lighting Ideas

The fun doesn’t have to end just because the sun goes down and it’s dark out now, call AATB to fulfill all your outdoor lighting requirements today! Remember, it is not just about hanging your lights on the wall in the garden. Your outdoor lighting ideas should be the right mix of creativity with a dose of functionality. With AATB, you won’t just light up your gardens and lawns to see, you’ll light up your house in style! 

Party on the patio 

Patios are probably one of the most popular places to continue a party once the night begins. Take help from outdoor landscape lighting to illuminate it. You may not be able to bring the moon into your yard, but you can get pretty close with AATB’s tree-mounted lights. Bathe it with mellowed softness and amp up the party mood with hanging patio lights. Take help of low-voltage outdoor lighting to create a beautiful space in your lawn.  

Happy glow in the lawn 

Show off your lawn in style with custom lighting solutions from AATB. Night Time Décor by All American Turf Beauty is known to provide unique lighting solutions for your homes. You can have a design consultation and a property demo. Once you approve the ‘lighted portrait’ of your home, lighting professionals in AATB will include your suggestions in the design.  

You will find your home to be a totally different experience once the design is finalized and landscape lighting is installed. No need to be afraid of the dark anymore. The night is young, so why not enjoy a stroll through your carefully crafted masterpiece? 

A fetching façade with architectural lighting 

Highlight some of the best features of your home with architectural lighting. Choose upward-facing bullet outdoor LED lights and install them a foot away from the foundation. It will not only focus on the most appealing features of your home but will show off your homes differently. Highlight areas like dormers, deep eaves or porch columns. 

Design a beautiful backyard 

Why should you restrict your outdoor accent lighting to the front of the house? Often neglected, but with immense potential to look beautiful, backyards should definitely have a touch of garden lighting. Go for tree-mounted downlights with up lighting which show off the larger trees. Choose hanging lights for the swing. Your backyard looks inviting and seems perfect for an evening rendezvous. 

Attract customers with commercial landscape lighting 

Never limit your outdoor lighting ideas to your homes. If you have a business, give an extra edge to your commercial properties with a beautiful lighting system. It is a brilliant idea for businesses which close late at night. Your business can easily turn into a favorite hanging spot for late night shoppers and people who love a cozy ambience to enjoy leisure time.  

A porch that spells elegance 

Are you one of those who fumble for your key and then at your lock every time you are out during nights? Time to add the safety shield without compromising on the beauty of the porch. Create a warm and inviting feel to your porch with pendant lighting. Whether you choose an impeccably contemporary or traditionally classic lighting solution, your home will greet you in style every time! 

Are you ready to soak in the Holiday spirit?  

Enjoy a spectacular display which is bright and cheery and does not create a hole in the pocket with AATB ‘s efficient lighting system. All American Turf Beauty has come up with a unique custom lighting solution. With this system, there will be a one-time permanent installation. No need to take down the lights after Christmas or New Year. 

The best thing about this lighting solution is that it has a cloud-based control solution. You can change the lights of the colors from any smartphone, tablet and web browser literally from anywhere.  

This sophisticated product takes exterior lighting to a whole new level. It is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it is a sustainable solution as the LED lights consume 87% less electricity. With a 7-year warranty, you are assured of brightening your outdoors for every occasion.  

Create an edge to your business with Holiday lighting 

Did you know that holiday décor can drastically improve your business? Everyone loves a warm and comfortable ambience during Holidays. With attractive decorations, your employees are in a joyous mood as they love to work in a merry ambience. If you are in retail, nothing boosts the morale of your customers better than a well-lit place which spells happiness. 

Time to bring in the AATB experts who will go the extra length to make your properties Instagram-worthy! 

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Overseeding Lawn in Fall: A Great Way to Grow a Lush Lawn!

Fall certainly has its own charm, with everything pumpkin-flavored, lots of earthy hues, and hoodie weather! This season also makes a great time for lawn care. Following a hot summer, the cool climate brings favorable growing conditions for grass on your lawn. In the fall, you can address the damage that took place during the summer, get ready for the rough winter months, and prepare yourself for a successful spring. Lawn aeration and overseeding your lawn are tasks that should be carried out at least once a year, and completing these tasks during the fall season will ensure a healthy and beautiful lawn! 

Before diving into why fall is the best time for these lawn care activities, let’s have a look at what is overseeding. 

 

What is Overseeding? 

Planting grass seed into existing turf directly – without tearing up the soil or turf – is called overseeding. It’s a simple and effective way of improving turf density, filling in bare spots, establishing improved grass varieties, and improving the color of your lawn.  

If a lawn appears to be worn out or old, needs increasing quantities of fertilizer and water to flourish, or is prone to insects or diseases, it needs overseeding.  

What are the Benefits of Overseeding? 

Many of the older lawns were set up with turfgrasses of common types, which are not suitable for homeowners of today. They are more prone to insects and diseases, calling for more water and fertilizer.  

Overseeding newer varieties of turfgrass into an old lawn can enhance its ability to withstand heavy traffic, shady conditions, drought, disease, and insects. Investing in overseeding cuts down on the amount of water, pesticides, and fertilizer required. Moreover, your lawn will look healthier and thicker, and it will stay greener.  

 

Fall – The Right Time for Overseeding Lawn 

If you are thinking when to overseed your lawn, here’s an insight. Overseeding for lawns that involve Cool season grasses should be carried out in early fall or late summer. When overseeding is done in fall, the young grass has two to three months for becoming better established before the setting in of winter when the temperatures fall too low, stopping the growth.  

Next spring, the grass will get another few months for developing deeper roots prior to the summer heat sets in. This makes the chief reason for overseeding lawn in fall, but other reasons are also there. Some of them are: 

• Overseeding lawns during fall provides a head start to the grass. The roots of the grass become stable before the arrival of winter. This reduces crop loss significantly in case of a dry, hot spring.  
• Soil moisture and amounts of rain are usually better during fall. 
• During the fall, the soil temperature is still warm, which is essential for seed germination. On the other hand, the cooler air temperature is favorable for grass growth.  
• Overseeding grass in fall eliminates or lowers competition from different summer weedy grasses, like foxtails, crabgrass, and other weeds. 

  

What Grasses Benefit from Overseeding?

Overseeding is not required for all grass types. Overseeding is primarily necessary for cool season grasses like annual and perennial ryegrass, fine fescue, tall fescue, and occasionally bluegrass. Exceptions are there, but for most of the home lawns, types of grass that spread through “runners” production are usually not overseeded unless it’s diseased or damaged. This includes most grass varieties of warm season, with an exception being bermudagrass which is overseeded during the fall occasionally.

 

How to Overseed Lawn?

For cool-season varieties of turf, the process of overseeding should be started by aerating the lawn thoroughly. The new seed should be applied using a fertilizer spreader, while following the recommended coverage rate of the product. Seeds falling in the aeration holes is ideal as this would prevent them from drying out quickly and help them germinate faster. Consider ushering more seeds into these holes using a rake’s backside.

Once the seeding has been done, apply a good fall fertilizer to your lawn. Make sure you apply the fertilizer the same day you’ve done the seeding. Then, water your lawn. Water one or two times each day until you find the new grass starting to grow.

Germination of the seeds may require two weeks or more. Continue mowing your lawn as usual until the grass growth stops for the season.

 

What Seed Type should be Used?

Ensure that you choose an appropriate grass seed type according to your climate, whether it’s a warm season or cool season. Additionally, select the right seed type based on the lawn’s use – whether your lawn is low-maintenance and purely for aesthetic purposes or intensely maintained and high-use.

It’s wise to not go for the cheapest grass seed available. Grass seeds come in different qualities. The cheap seeds are often made of poor-performing, generic grass varieties or, worse, contain filler like annual ryegrass or weed seeds. It’s not necessary to get the most expensive grass seed out there, however, opt for a seed of good quality and make sure it is highly preferred by several local experts.

 

Wrap Up 

So, if you think your lawn needs a revamp, go for lawn aeration and overseeding in the fall! Investing some time in overseeding during the fall can truly work wonders for the appearance and health of your lawn.

All American Turf Beauty, an Iowa–based reputed lawn care company, can expertly handle all lawn care jobs including fall aeration and seeding of lawns. Our experienced lawn care professionals can help you attain a beautiful green and healthy lawn. Call our company today to discuss your lawn care requirements!

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Tune up Fall Garden Soil: Prepare your Lawns the Healthy Way

 

It’s been a long and hot summer, and now it’s time to prepare your lawn for the fall. The lawn looks dull and you wonder what you could have done to make it healthier. It may come as a surprise, but fall is the best time to improve the quality of soil in your lawn. A little work in the fall, and you can save a lot of time and energy during the winter and spring. Let’s find out how you can prepare your lawns for cold weather the healthy way. 

Begin with a soil test 

The summer days can make soil worn out and dry, but it’s not possible to know the extent of the damage without a soil test. Take a soil sample and get it tested with your lawn care specialist. The results will help you determine the best fertilizers to use for improving the soil. Depending on soil quality, you can understand what nutrients are missing and how to increase the pH level. 

Is ‘till’ a big deal? 

Wet or damp soil during spring makes spading tough. Tilling in wet soil can result in clods, which are difficult to break. But tilling or spading in fall allows the soil to naturally break into particles. In the different phases of winter, freezing and thawing leaves a nice texture on the lawns. This way, you can have that crumbly fall garden soil which is perfect for spring planting. 

Fall is also a good time to add potassium and phosphorus to the soil. Adding these will enrich the ground and adjust the pH level in your soil. Fall is the best time to add these nutrients so that they blend in and add to the texture. Soil preparation is the foundation for healthy plants, so don’t ignore it! 

Check soil pH level 

A plant can grow in soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.0. An increase from 5.5 to 6.8 can ensure better growth of plants. Any inconsistency in soil pH levels can lead to problems like iron deficiency in plants. Adding lime to acidic soils will increase pH levels. If you notice a magnesium deficiency, tune up your fall garden soil with dolomitic limestone. It’ll take some time for the liming materials to impact the soil, so apply them well ahead of planting time. 

You can determine the amount of lime needed in your fall garden by testing the existing pH level and soil texture. To raise it by 1 point, you can add about 4 pounds of ground limestone to every 100 square feet for sandy soils. The amount will be 10 pounds for clay soil and 7-8 pounds for loamy soils. 

Start the organic diet 

The fresh blooms in the spring are a beautiful sight. However, we often miss the underground activities taking place when the soil comes to life in the spring. All the organisms in the soil come into existence in the spring, and it’s important to start your soil building exercises early, preferably in the fall.   

Look around and you will notice a lot of organic fertilizers like garden debris, fallen leaves, and even kitchen scraps which can be used in lawns. Add organic matter in the top 2 inches of soil and cover with mulch. This is the time to add potassium, phosphorus, lime, and concentrated manures. By spring they’ll break down and prepare the ground for good growth. 

A nod to nitrogen 

Nitrogen deserves special attention among all the nutrients used to improve fall garden soil. Even after years of soil building, nitrogen often begins depleting and needs to be restored from time to time. Nitrogen not only helps in plant growth, but it also feeds soil organisms. 

Before the arrival of spring, your lawn should have enough nitrogen for the new season. We recommend that you include bone meal in your fall lawn care schedule since it’s rich in concentrated nitrogen. On the other hand, fall legume can transfer nitrogen to the soil from the atmosphere. Other elements that are rich in nitrogen include green grass clippings or manure.  

‘Cover’ lawns with cover crops 

Did you know one of the best sources of nutrients for your soil is living plants? Popularly known as cover crops, they are helpful in preventing soil erosion. Crops such as annual ryegrass, winter wheat or winter rye are normally seeded during the fall, ideally 6 weeks before the first frost.  

Clean your old plants, till the soil, and plant the cover crops. Allow them to grow, till during early spring, and then till it underground. There should be a gap of few weeks between tilling and planting. This will give the cover crop time to break and add essential nutrients to the soil. 

Enjoy the crisp autumn weather while getting your lawn ready for the spring. Take a deep breath and you simply can’t miss the smell of freshly turned soil! 

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