As autumn settles in, many people begin planning celebrations of good tidings. Some string up colorful lights while others add, repair or replace existing lighting fixtures for festive ambience. Before grabbing that ladder, follow these helpful hints to keep gatherings safe and radiant all season:

Before you decorate

• Check lights for frayed cords, broken wires, bulbs and loose connections. Throw away damaged goods. Unplug lights before replacing broken bulbs or fuses.
• Use only UL approved lights. Approved products are tested for resistance to water, sunlight and heat and require certain standards of wiring.

When you decorate

• When hanging lights, use plastic hangers instead of staples, tacks or nails, which can pierce wires.
• Limit the use of extension cords and avoid overloading outlets by plugging in too many strings of lights or other electrical items.
• Follow the manufacturers’ recommendations for the number of strings of lights that can safely be connected.
• Make sure your outdoor lights are rated for outside use.
• Never use lit candles on trees or decorations. They are a fire hazard!
• Keep tree and greenery away from all heat sources.
• Be sure all ornaments, trimmings and artificial trees are made of fire-retardant or non-combustible materials.

Enjoy your lights safely

• Light outdoor decorations during evening hours only, from dusk until bedtime for homes and from dusk until close for businesses. Consider using a timer to make that easier.
• Unplug your tree lights and all lighted decorations when you are away from home or asleep.
• Instead of elaborate lighting displays at your home, enjoy community lighting displays at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium's Zoolights, Spanaway Park's Fantasy Lights.