By this weekend, many Benicians will have started — or finished — decorating their homes and offices for Christmas and other holidays.

Pacific Gas and Electric North Bay Division Manager Dave Canny is offering suggestions to help residents stay safe as they put their holiday lights in place.

“In the days following Thanksgiving, many families will begin the festive tradition of lighting their homes and businesses for the holiday season,” Canny said.

Among the tips he is offering: avoid electric hazards, particularly when decorating outdoors.

“Before climbing ladders to string outdoor lights, check for overhead power lines nearby, especially in trees,” he said. “Contact can be fatal.”

He said residents can prevent fire hazards by avoiding overloading their extension cords and wall sockets by limiting the light strings they connect.

“Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires, broken sockets or other signs of wear,” Canny said.

“Don’t place cords under rugs or furniture where they can overheat. Turn off decorative lights, indoors and outdoors, when leaving home or going to bed.”

Canny recommended residents switch to light-emitting diode (LED) lights and decorations that produce very little heat. That makes them safe to touch, and reduces the risk of fire, he said.

“As an added bonus, they consume 75 percent less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, helping you save money this holiday season,” he said.

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