If there is one thing Clark Griswold taught us, it is that enthusiasm is great. Controlled enthusiasm is even better. His holiday spirit was unmatched, but so were the sparks, fuses, explosions, and ladder mishaps that followed him through the season.
Here at TVEC, we love the excitement of holiday decorating. We also love keeping you and your family safe. Before you haul out your boxes of lights and climb onto the roof in search of the perfect glow, here is your guide to decorating safely. Think of this as the sensible version of what Clark meant to do.
Inspect Before You Plug In
Clark plugged in 25,000 lights without checking a single cord. You do not have to follow his example.
Take a moment to examine all the light strands closely. Replace any with cracked insulation, broken bulbs, or loose wires. For outdoor decorations, make sure your lights are rated for exterior use. A little patience here can prevent a lot of surprises later.
Ladder Safety the Non-Griswold Way
It only took one slippery roof for Clark to go sliding down into his bushes. A stable ladder would have saved the day.
Before you start, place your ladder on solid, level ground. Have someone hold the bottom for extra stability. Keep both feet firmly planted and avoid leaning too far to one side. Good shoes make a difference, too, so skip the slick soles.
Keep Decorations Clear of Power Lines
Clark had a few close calls with his roofline and the electrical system. That is one scene worth skipping in real life.
Always keep outdoor decorations and light strands far away from overhead power lines. Do not attach lights directly to utility poles or equipment. Instead, use clips and hooks designed for outdoor use and avoid stapling cords. It keeps everything secure and keeps you safe.
Smart Indoor Decorating
Indoor decorating should be calm and cozy, not filled with sparks and blown fuses.
Keep outlets from overloading by spreading out your lights and decorations. Use power strips with built-in overload protection when possible. Turn everything off before going to sleep or leaving the house. If you have a real tree, keep it watered to prevent it from drying out and becoming a hazard. Even the Griswolds would approve of a safer tree.
Use Extension Cords Wisely
Clark’s extension cord setup was a marvel of chaos. Let us aim for order instead.
Use outdoor-rated cords for outdoor displays. Do not chain multiple extension cords together. Keep plugs dry and off the ground. Avoid running cords under rugs, through doors, or in areas where pets and children play. Regularly check cords for signs of heat or damage.
LEDs: Bright, Cool, and Cost-Effective
Clark wanted his house to be the brightest on the block. You can do that too, just without risking the power grid.
LED lights run cooler, last longer, and use far less energy. They reduce the chance of overload and keep your winter energy bill in check. They are also safer around kids and pets. Clark may have needed a separate nuclear plant to power his lights, but you do not.
Inflatable Fun Done Safely
Those giant inflatable snowmen and Santas are fun, but they still need safe placement.
Keep inflatables away from power lines and secure them to prevent tipping. Use grounded outdoor outlets and shut them off during storms or strong winds. Avoid placing them too close to roads or driveways to maintain clear visibility.
Child and Pet Safety
Not every holiday moment needs to turn into a comedy scene.
Keep cords out of reach of little hands and curious paws. Avoid glass ornaments on low branches. Use cord protectors for anything that sits on the floor. If your tree stand is filled with water, keep it covered so children and pets cannot access it.
If your display shines brightly without sparks, tripping hazards, or flying ladder incidents, you can officially say your home is glowing with holiday spirit, not Griswold energy.
