Be careful not to overload your circuits during the Christmas season.

Watch for flickering lights, sparks from appliances or wall outlets, warm switch plates, plugs or outlets, and dimming lights or television screens.

Check decorative lights for burned-out bulbs before hanging them.

Unplug them before leaving home or going to sleep.

To ensure that extension cords are adequate for the job, check the rating and amperage before you use them. A warm cord or plug may indicate an overload.