Cuivre River Electric Cooperative reminds everyone to be safe with electricity during the holidays. Cuivre River Safety Coordinator Doug Bagby says, “A little thoughtful planning and common sense will help everyone enjoy the holidays safely.”This festive season offers some unique potential electrical hazards. “Remember to thoroughly check electrically operated decorations before plugging them into an outlet,” Bagby adds.Cuivre River offers these tips to help you have a safe and happy holiday season:• Use waterproof outdoor cords for outdoor lights and decorations. Keep connections above ground and out of water and remember to use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlet.• Remember to keep indoor lights and decorations inside.• Don’t overload electric outlets.• Check decorative lights for frayed wiring and loose connections.• Look for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark on decorative lights and other electrical items.• Watch for sharp edges that could cut wiring if attaching lights to gutters. • Resist connecting multiple extension cords together.• Unplug decorative lighting when leaving home and before going to bed.• Keep Christmas trees away from heating sources and electrical appliances.• If decorating outside, remember to always look up for power lines and maintain at least a 10-foot safety zone away from lines.• Use ladders safely when installing lights or decorations. Be sure to have a helper hold and secure the ladder.Call 1-800-392-3709, extension 4868, or visit www.cuivre.com for questions or concerns about electric safety during the holidays.Christmas Tree