Duquesne Light  

Lighting Safety
Light Bulbs
Check the wattage of all bulbs in light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage for the size of the fixture. Replace bulbs if they have a higher wattage than recommended. If you don't know the correct wattage, check with the manufacturer of the fixture. Light bulbs can get very hot - up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for a 100-watt bulb. Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely; loose bulbs may overheat. If you must use an extension cord temporarily, match the amperage or wattage limits marked on the cord and appliance to avoid a fire hazard.

Halogen Floor Lamps
Halogen floor lamps operate at much higher temperatures than a standard incandescent light bulb. Never place a halogen floor lamp where it could come in contact with draperies, clothing or other combustible materials. Be sure to turn the lamp off whenever you leave the room for an extended period of time and never use tall lamps, which can easily be knocked over, in a child's bedroom or playroom.

Holiday Safety Tips
General
  • Purchase lights that are U/L (Underwriter's Laboratory) approved.
  • Check annually for frayed or exposed wiring, broken bulbs or sockets and loose connections.
  • Don't overload extension cords or outlets.
  • Keep a U/L listed multi-purpose fire extinguisher nearby, but only attempt to use the extinguisher if you know how to operate it and if the fire is small.
  • Unplug all lighting when you leave the house or at bedtime, and remember to grasp the plug – don't pull on the cord.
Indoor
  • Don't run electrical cords under carpets, cushions or anywhere they might be easily crushed or broken.
  • Do not burn wrapping paper and boxes in the fireplace. They ignite rapidly and can cause flash fires and create sparks that could ignite nearby combustibles.
  • If a fire is out of control, evacuate the house immediately and call the fire department (a Christmas tree can be completely consumed by fire in less than 30 seconds).
Outdoor
  • Don't use indoor lights outside.
  • Hang outdoor lights with insulated staples or Christmas light hooks – not nails or tacks.
  • Hang bulbs downward to keep moisture out of sockets.
Tree
  • Fasten light strings securely to the tree and don’t let the bulbs touch branches or needles.
  • Never use electric lights on a metallic tree. Damaged light strings can electrically charge the tree.
  • Use only a U/L approved plastic tree made of fire resistant material.
  • Place your tree in a sturdy, tip-proof stand away from high traffic areas and heat sources.
  • Keep the stand for a live tree filled with lukewarm water and a little bit of sugar, and check it daily.

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