Before you string up those Christmas lights on your home, there are a few things you need to consider when it comes to safety. Here are some safety tips you can keep in mind while decorating your home for the holidays.

Check all your decorating gear before going up the roof. Make sure that your ladder is in good shape and that all moving parts (like the rope and pulley) are in working condition. If your ladder’s about to fall apart, don’t bother fixing it because it’ll take more effort than it’s worth.

Before climbing up, carry all the tools you in a tool pouch. Use only the tools appropriate for the job. For instance, aluminum ladders are conductors for electricity. If you’re stringing up Christmas lights, it’s better to use fiberglass or a wooden ladder instead because they’re non-conductive as long as they remain dry.

When attaching cords to the eaves of your house, use a staple gun instead of a hammer. It’s easier to use a gun because you’ll only need one hand, plus it’s less likely to cause you to lose your balance while you’re high off the ground.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting up lights, especially outdoors on wintry days. Lights, even low-wattage ones, can be an electrical hazard so make sure you plug them in a weather-proof outlet.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help for bigger decorating jobs. Consider making a trade-off with your neighbors and giving each other a hand for annual decorating chores.

Happy decorating! And stay safe.