Imagine this: You’re watching a comedic movie in the theater.  Explosions, fires, physical pain—all occur with minimal impact on the characters. You eat popcorn. You laugh. Then, you head home. You know, intuitively, that what is seen on the big screen should not happen in real life.

Yet, some of the mishaps that are depicted in movies, we see in homes. Let us set up your home for safety with these tips.

  1. Don’t overload extension cords. In National Lampoon’s A Christmas Vacation, Clark Griswold’s lighting extravaganza is supported by multiple extension cords. While only a breaker popped in the movie, overloading electrical sockets, extension cords, or electrical units means extra current is running through your wires. The increased current can overheat the cords, increasing the chance of fire or a full power outage.

2. Be aware of live wires. In Back to the Future, Dr. Emmett Brown experiments with electricity in sporadic ways. Multiple scenes show the doctor connecting wires and generating power surges with no safety gear or precautions. The electrical outlets in your home generate energy, so be cautious around them. Keep wires and cords unencumbered. Maintain secure covers over outlets. If you need to work with wiring in your home, briefly shut off the power source.

3. Don’t underestimate light bulbs. In The Addams’ Family, the character of Uncle Fester places a light bulb in his mouth, making it glow. While seemingly innocuous, bulbs conduct electricity.   If a bulb has shorted out or broken, allow time to cool. Then, shut off the power to the bulb when replacing. An Uncle Fester glow in real life can be dangerous.

4. Protect your furry friends.  In Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Grinch wraps Christmas lights around his dog, Max. While Max looks cute in glowing lights, he is also exposed to live wires. At home, tuck electrical cords out of sight of your puppy. Carefully stash away dangling lights from your curious cat.  Wires are tasty to chew, so provide your pet with an alternative treat.

5. Get your home checked by a professional. In The Money Pit, Tom Hank’s character, Walter, rings his house’s doorbell and doorbell shoots electrical sparks into his hand.  In Colorado, homeowners may perform their own electrical work, according to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies. If you’ve done handiwork in your home, even as simple as a doorbell installation, give us a call. We would happily look it over and make any adjustments.

We all enjoy the movies, but your home’s safety is paramount. Sometimes, we don’t think about potential hazards lurking around us. If you doubt your home’s current setup, then our certified electricians would love to give you peace of mind. Let’s keep the movies fun, and our homes protected.