Before You Plug In: Martha Stewart’s Crucial Warning Against This Common Item When Hanging Outdoor Holiday Lights

If you haven't done so already, the day for hanging your Christmas lights will likely arrive in the very near future, but decking the halls comes with safety precautions.

Thankfully, Martha Stewart has had our back for over nine years, when she first shared her Christmas decor safety advice from her Bedford home. Nearly a decade later, her advice still rings just as true – and following her example only involves a few simple items that you may already own.

'It is that time of year again to bedeck and bedazzle your home for the holidays. There are lots of safety tips to take into consideration when you're doing this kind of outdoor decoration with lights,' Martha comments from her iconic home. Firstly, and most importantly, you will need a wooden or fiberglass ladder (like this one from Amazon).

'Always use a fiberglass or wooden ladder, which will not conduct electricity. You will be much safer than if you're using a metal ladder,' Martha comments.

Martha’s Safety Tips for Holiday Decorating - YouTube

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Next, Martha urges us to reconsider the type of extension cord that's best for outdoor use. 'I will not use an indoor extension cord. I want to use a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord [like this from Walmart] and never attach these outdoor wires with nails or staples. Use these cable ties so this cord can now be hidden right behind this trellis.'

Shop Martha Stewart's Outdoor Christmas Essentials

Next, Martha addresses the classic Christmas garland and how to keep it in place without damaging your home's exterior.

'Let me tell you a little bit about the garlands that we've put on the balustrades. The same rules apply. Never nail or staple your electric cords to your wood. It's much better to use something like a cable tie like this. How lucky [I am] to find this color to match the gray of the house. Put this to secure the lights and the garland to your stair posts. These are so easily removed too, with just a snip of a scissor,' Martha comments.

If you were torn between a real or faux garland, Martha has the answer for that, too.

'Don't forget, [it’s] very important. This is artificial. I use artificial because it stays green for the entire holiday season. Before you go to bed, turn out the lights, or you can use a timer like this that'll control the on and off of the lights. If you follow these simple rules, you too can have a safe and happy holiday,' Martha says.