Beware Christmas Decoration Dangers

NEW YORK - (CBS4) 'Tis the season to string the light and trim the tree but while holiday decorating can be fun, it can also cause some serious fire hazards.

"Counterfeit extension cords and Christmas tree fires are major concerns during holiday time. So, as you dust of your old Christmas decorations this season, be careful, because they just might be a serious fire hazard," said "Early Show" Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen.

Brett Brenner, president of the Electrical Safety Foundation International, said, "People are using more energy than they're used to and intrinsically you have more things around that can catch fire."

According to the National Fire Protection Association, Christmas tree fires cause more than $16 million worth of property damage each year. Holiday lights account for nearly $9 million in damage.

Brenner said, "It's very important you're making sure those devices are safe in your home."

On the State Farm Research Lab outside of Chicago, they put a string of lights with frayed wire on a Christmas tree. When they plugged it in, the wire began to smoke, and within seconds the tree totally caught on fire.

Brenner said, "We're in a controlled laboratory setting with 30 to 50-foot ceilings, you can imagine what would happen in a home with eight-foot ceilings."

Experts from the Electrical Safety Foundation International say counterfeit lights and extension cords can also be a huge problem during the holidays.

Brenner said, "Many times they're using less expensive materials, which actually cause the fire itself. The wires inside the devices will not support the load. It really creates and dangerous situation."

In another test at the lab, they put a counterfeit extension cord with a space heater. First smoke, then fire.

Brenner said, "It caught fire so quickly it was even surprising to me. The fact is, if that was behind someone's couch or in someone's home, that could definitely start a home fire."

To keep safe and avoid holiday fires, experts say never overload electrical outlets, inspect decorations for loose wires, buy lights and cords from trusted retailers, and always unplug decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

"Respect electricity," Brenner said. "Electricity is great when it works, but it's uniquely unforgiving in that it can easily start a home fire."

Another safety note, if you're going out to buy a real tree, look for one that has fresh green needles. Koeppen added, "Make sure you water the tree. A dry tree can go up in flames in a snap. Keep it about three feet from any heat source like a fireplace or radiator."

And if you're buying a fake tree, she said look for one that says "fire resistant."

Koeppen said this year might be a good time to buy new lights, as well.

"Look for LED holiday lights," she said. "They are cooler to the touch, and can save you some money on your electric bill."