As November kicks off, it’s hard to believe we will soon gather 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 Harrison REMC cares about your well-being. This month, I would like to share a few practical tips to help you stay safe and efficient during the holiday season.

SAFETY FIRST

My family enjoys decorating our home for the holidays. Before we deck the halls, I always check electrical cords and light strands to make sure they aren’t frayed or damaged. Knowing our holiday lights are ready to brighten our home safely gives us peace of mind. I also double-check the outside lights to ensure they are rated for outdoor use.

Like many households, we also enjoy holiday-scented candles. While festive, candles can create fire hazards and should never be left unattended. One of the best and easiest ways to safeguard your home is to test smoke alarms often. 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 can impact home energy use. You can lower your bills by taking a few small steps to save energy during the holiday season.

Since heating and cooling consume the majority of home energy, the thermostat is one of the best places to save money. Lower it a few degrees, especially when family or friends stop by. Good company brings additional warmth to your home.

Your family can also save energy by decorating with LED holiday lights. LEDs are the most energyefficient lighting options available, and they last much longer than traditional bulbs.

One of the best parts of the holiday season is the food — not just the meals but the time we spend together in the kitchen. There are many ways to save in the heart of your home, but one of the best approaches is to cook with smaller countertop appliances, such as air fryers, slow cookers, and toaster ovens. These handy appliances consume a fraction of the energy used to heat the oven, creating the perfect recipe for mealtime and energy savings.

I hope you will implement some of these energy-saving and safety tips into your holiday plans. For additional advice, visit our website at harrisonremc.com. We’re here to help you with safety and savings year round.

From your friends at Harrison REMC, we hope your holiday season is merry and bright.