Circuits in most new homes can carry 20 amps or 2,400 watts each. To figure out your holiday lighting load, multiply the number of bulbs by the number of watts per bulb. Be sure to include house lamps, appliances and other electrical equipment on the same circuit. Before you decorate, check light sets for frayed wires, damaged sockets or cracked insulation. If you find defects, replace the entire set.
Hot bulbs can ignite dry branches.
Avoid fire by keeping your natural tree well watered and keeping extension cords and light sets away from the water. Light the tree only when you are at home and awake to enjoy it. Keep a fire extinguisher handy and your smoke detectors in good working order. Unplug indoor tree lights before watering the tree, and turn off all electrical decorations before leaving home or going to bed. For outdoor lighting, use a ground fault circuit interrupter on each circuit.