How to Take Down Holiday Lights Safely
If Rudolph and his friends are still on your roof along with a long stretch of icicle lights, it’s time to get your holiday decorations back in storage. Though you could possibly save them for a “Christmas in July” party, you risk the wear and tear of the elements on your decorations. However, don’t just go in removing your lights blindly! Here are some safety rules to follow:- If you can, don’t get on your roof. Remove everything you can from the safety of a sturdy ladder.
- Use the buddy system. Never use a ladder alone! Get a trusted adult to make sure the ladder is steady and to hold it as you climb up to remove your lights.
- Carefully remove your lights from the fixtures that support them. Hopefully, you didn’t use nails or staples, which can damage your shingles. If you used plastic hooks, you can leave them on your roof all year so that hanging up your lights again is easy.
- If you must go on your roof, wear shoes with good traction. You should also be 100% sure you can physically handle being on your roof.
- If you have ANY doubt that you can do the job safely, you should hire professionals to come over and remove your decorations.