Do you know what’s even scarier than a spooky house on Halloween? It’s getting injured while decorating. If you’re planning on sprucing up your home this All Hallows Eve, it is essential to take the proper precautions. Studies have shown that, on average, there are around 160 decorating-related injuries each day during the holiday season, and almost half involve falls.
Continue reading to learn tips on decorating your roof spookily and safely!
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Work With a Partner
When decorating your home, it is always best to have someone else helping. Whether they are holding the ladder and assisting you from the ground or up on the roof with you, it is important not to attempt the task alone. This way, if an accident occurs, you have an extra person on site to get help as soon as possible.
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Be On the Lookout for Roof Damage
Damaged or missing shingles are accidents waiting to happen. Due to leaking or wear and tear, the substructure in these areas is extremely weak. To avoid stepping on these areas, check your roof for damage beforehand. If you are unsure if your roof is damaged, contact a trusted roofing company to give you a free roof inspection.
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Inspect Lights and Extension Cords Beforehand
You should ensure that all lights and extension cords you plan to use are in good shape and still work. Frayed wires can damage not only your other decorations but your overall roof. A shock or short in the cables can cause your shingles to set ablaze. Even if you have used the decorations for years, that’s even more of a reason to ensure they are still working correctly. You should also ALWAYS use outdoor lights for decoration. Indoor lights aren’t meant to withstand the elements and can become hazardous.
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Protect Plugs from Water Damage
An easy way to protect plugs from water is by using electrical tape. If you plug one cord into another, then you should cover both parts of the plugs so that water can’t seep in between the two. The tape will pull off easily when you store them away from the year, so don’t worry about it causing damage to your decorations. You should also avoid hanging lights around areas where rain typically builds up. Adjust your decorating plans so your lights steer clear from the edges of gutters and valleys in your roof.
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Use the Right Ladder
When decorating your roof, the ladder you use should be at least three feet taller than the entry point for your roof. Your ladder should be secure and sturdy. As previously mentioned, it is best to have someone holding the ladder’s base while you are on it or climbing up it. Make sure you choose a damage-free area to ensure that your weight will be supported when you climb on top.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If your roof is not safe to decorate, don’t risk injuring yourself or others. At Arnett Construction, we offer FREE roof inspections to ensure your family’s and your home’s safety. You can also hire a professional to decorate for you. It is better to be safe than sorry. Have a happy and safe Halloween!
