Over the weekend, a house fire in Seattle was caused by an overloaded electrical outlet that had multiple strings of Christmas lights plugged into it. The fire caused $20,000 in damage. Every year, Christmas trees and lighting-related fires spike in December and January. Cords and plugs are the leading type of equipment involved Christmas tree fires.

Before you hang up holiday lights this year, Seattle Fire Department wants to remind you to make sure you take the following steps:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use decorative lights.
• Do not use any string lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulbs .
• Do not connect more than three light strands together.
• To avoid damage to the cord, do not use nails or staples to hang lights.
• Always unplug tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.

 For more tips on holiday fire safety – visit:  http://www.seattle.gov/fire/pubEd/holiday