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Deck The Halls Without Any Falls

Christmas

lady on a ladder hanging tinsel on a wooden beam

Hanging outdoor Christmas lights is one of the best ways to bring the magic of the season to your home. Twinkling lights instantly add warmth, joy and that unmistakable holiday spirit, making everything feel a little more festive! But before you start climbing ladders and stringing lights along roofs and trees, it’s essential to make sure you’re doing it safely. We’ve partnered with leading ladder specialist Henchman to share some top tips for safe, secure and stunning light displays this Christmas.

Plan Your Display and Gather Your Tools

Before you begin climbing any ladders or start untangling your lights, take some time to plan your display and gather everything you need. A bit of prep goes a long way and makes the whole decorating process smoother, so you can enjoy the sparkle without extra trips up and down the ladder.

Think about where you want to add lights – along eaves, around windows, up trees and over bushes or fences. Make a list of the tools and equipment you’ll need, including:

Extension leads – suitable for outdoor use,
Hooks or clips for securing the lights,
A sturdy and supportive ladder,
Electrical tape.

It’s also a good idea to inspect your lights before you begin. Check for any frayed wires or damaged bulbs and replace anything that’s seen better days. It’s also important to keep your work area clutter-free, a clear workspace helps you stay focused on your display and avoid trips and falls.

Check the Weather

The weather can make or break a safe decorating session, especially when you’re outside with electrical lights and a ladder. Aim for a dry, calm day – it’s best to avoid rain, frost or wind as this can throw off your balance and send items flying.

If you see rain or wind in the forecast, it’s best to wait – the holidays aren’t going anywhere, so take your time! Also inspect the ground where you’ll set up your ladder. Avoid any mud or ice, and if the ground is uneven ensure you’re using a suitable ladder or aim for a spot that’s flat and stable.

Choose the Right Ladder

A sturdy ladder is your best friend for outdoor decorating. A Fully Adjustable Tripod Ladder is a great choice, it has three legs you can adjust individually to make sure you’re always stable, even on slopes or uneven ground.

We recommend choosing your ladder based on the typical height you’ll be working at. Available in a range of sizes from 5ft to 12ft, the tripod ladder offers flexibility for various tasks. The smallest model is perfect for indoor decorating, such as placing the star on top of your tree or trying the viral fairy light ceiling trend. While the taller models make it easy to hang lights along guttering or reach upstairs windows. Its claw-like feet ensure a firm grip on soft ground, keeping you secure on muddy or soft terrain. On hard surfaces such as concrete or paving, use the rubber feet that are designed to dig into and grip the ground, preventing slipping or sinking.

Consider these factors when picking a ladder:

Height – Make sure your ladder is tall enough for the job, so you don’t have to stretch to reach gutters, trees, or rooflines.
Safety features – Henchman’s ladder has a platform rung and guardrail to give you extra security, so you can work confidently at any height.

Before you start, give your ladder a quick check for any damage or signs of wear. Make sure all legs are stable and free from debris and confirm that any locks or adjustments are secure. With the right ladder, you can tackle your Christmas decorating with confidence and ease – so you can focus on creating a beautiful display without worry!

Climb With Care

Once you’re on the ladder, it’s all about staying balanced and focused. Always keep three points of contact – two feet and one hand on the ladder. This will keep you balanced as you climb and work.

If you’re using a tripod ladder like Henchman’s, take advantage of the guardrail for added support. This can help you maintain your balance while you work, allowing you to use both hands to adjust the lights while keeping three points of contact with the ladder for stability when leaning your waist into the guardrail. And remember, if you need to reach something comfortably, climb down and move the ladder instead of stretching too far. Leaning too far is one of the easiest ways to lose balance, stay centred and take your time.

Work With a Helper

Christmas decorating is much easier (and more fun!) with a buddy. A helper can hold the ladder steady, pass you the lights and clips and make sure the area stays clear of obstacles. They can even give you a second opinion to make sure everything looks as good from below as it does up close.

Having a second person there isn’t just convenient – it’s a big safety boost. Plus, working together makes the whole process feel like part of the festive fun!

Check Your Lights and Enjoy

Once your lights are up, your ladder is put away and everything’s ready to shine, step back and enjoy the magic. But before you plug them in for good, do a quick final check – make sure each light is secure, no cords are dangling, and all plugs are safe for outdoor use.

Last-minute tips:

Use outdoor-safe lights and extension leads.
Double-check connections – secure everything with electrical tape if needed and keep the wires off the ground where possible.
Test your lights before leaving them on for the night, just to make sure everything’s working perfectly.

With a little planning, the right tools and some ladder-safety tips, hanging your outdoor lights can be a safe and fun part of the festive season. So put on your Christmas playlist, grab a helper and begin decorating your home into a festive wonderland!

For more expert advice on using ladders safely and to explore the full range of Henchman ladders, visit: https://www.henchman.co.uk/