As December kicks off, it’s hard to believe we’ll soon be gathering with family and friends to celebrate the holiday season. This festive time of year brings joy and warmth, but as the weather gets cooler and we spend more time indoors, the holidays can also bring increased energy use and a higher risk of electrical and fire hazards.
As your local electric cooperative, our team at Lassen Municipal Utility District cares about your well-being. Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe and efficient during the holidays.
Safety First
Many families enjoy decorating their homes for the holidays. Before you deck the halls, always check electrical cords and light strands to make sure they aren’t frayed or damaged. This will give you peace of mind, knowing your holiday lights are ready to safely brighten your home. You should also double-check the lights used outside to make sure they’re rated for outdoor use.
You may enjoy holiday-scented candles. While festive, candles can create fire hazards and should never be left unattended. 1 of the best and easiest ways to safeguard your home is to test smoke alarms often. It’s good to test on the first of each month, so it’s easy to remember. Testing smoke alarms only takes a few seconds and could save lives, so make it a habit.
'Tis the Season for Savings
Spending more time indoors with a few more guests in the home can impact home energy use. By taking small steps to save energy during the holiday season, you can lower your bills.
Since heating and cooling make up most of home energy consumption, the thermostat is 1 of the best places to save. Lower it a few degrees, especially when you have family or friends stopping by. Good company brings additional warmth to your home.
Your family can also save by decorating with LED holiday lights. LEDs are the most energy-efficient lighting options available, and they last much longer than traditional bulbs.
There’s no denying 1 of the best parts of the holiday season is the food—not just the meals but the time spent in the kitchen.
There are many ways to save, but 1 of the best approaches is to cook with smaller countertop appliances, such as air fryers, slow cookers, and toaster ovens. These appliances consume a fraction of the energy used to heat the oven.
Consider implementing some of these tips into your holiday plans. From your friends at LMUD, we hope your holiday season is merry and bright.