They key to a successful and restful winter is preparing for it. The first freeze and snowfall aren’t as far off as they seem. With the holidays fast approaching, now is the time to ensure that you don’t have an electrical meltdown during the peak of the season. Fusion Electric came up with four things you can add or do to your home’s electrical outlets now for an easier and safer winter.

Add Electrical Outlet Covers

One of the most important things you can add to your home this season are outlet covers on your exterior outlets. This small addition to your home can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Between the wind, rain, snow, and ice that are so common in the winter months, it’s likely that liquid will get into your uncovered outdoor outlets – and wreak havoc in the freezing temperatures. Installing these plastic or metal covers to your outdoor outlets will keep unwanted things out, and ensure that your outlets continue operating like they’re supposed to all winter long.

Related Read: Electrical Must-Haves for Hanging Holiday Lights

Install GFCI Outlets

Piggy backing on the last point, you should also consider installing GFCI outlets, or ground fault circuit interrupter outlets , in place of all your non-GFCI outdoor outlets. Doing so will ensure a much safer holiday season when it comes to your holiday decorations and outdoor lights. GFCI outlets prevent electrical shock in wet locations by shutting off electric flow when it senses a disruption in the electric current. This can help prevent blown fuses as well as shocks and electrocutions.

Add More Outlets if Needed

Just put the power strip away. It’s tempting to use power strips everywhere during the holidays, with all the lights, decorations, sound systems, etc. that are used in abundance this time of year. It’s really in your best interest not to though (unless it is an advanced power strip). Power strips can become overloaded and can be a fire hazard. Instead, call a local electrician to install more outlets inside your home and along the exterior to accommodate the needs of your holiday decorations.

Light Timers

Another item to have on hand this winter is light timers. Instead of leaving holiday decorations on until you remember to turn them off, use a light timer. This can not only help keep that electrical bill down, but it can also help lower the risk of an electrical fire. You can buy light timers that you can permanently install or simple plug in versions that will do the trick for the season.

Call Fusion Electric at 913-563-7975 today to help you prepare your home for the electrical demands of the winter season.