As the holiday season approaches, many homeowners look forward to adorning their homes with festive lights. However, the process of hanging these lights can be fraught with risks, particularly when it involves the use of ladders. Ladder-related injuries are alarmingly common and can have serious consequences. Let's explore why opting for DIY permanent holiday lighting (PHL) is a safer and more economical choice compared to hanging seasonal lights.
The Risks of Using Ladders
High Frequency of Injuries:
Every year, more than 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries, and approximately 300 of these incidents prove fatal. In 2020 alone, there were 161 fatalities and 22,710 nonfatal injuries involving laddersโ (Bureau of Labor Statistics)โโ (House Grail)โ. These numbers highlight the significant danger posed by ladder use, especially during the busy holiday season.
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents:
- Incorrect Setup: One of the leading causes of ladder-related injuries is improper setup. This includes placing the ladder at the wrong angle, not securing it properly, or using it on uneven surfaces.
- Slips and Falls: Slipping on ladder rungs or losing balance while climbing are common accidents. In fact, 53% of ladder-related accidents occur when the ladder breaks or slips during useโ (InterNACHI)โ.
- Lack of Training: Many ladder users lack proper training on safe usage and inspection, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents. About 66% of people injured by ladders are not trained to inspect them for defects before useโ (House Grail)โ.
Benefits of DIY Permanent Holiday Lighting
Safety First:
- Eliminate Ladder Use: With DIY PHL, you install the lights once and enjoy them for years, significantly reducing the need to climb ladders annually. This greatly minimizes the risk of falls and injuries associated with ladder use.
- Durability and Longevity: DIY PHL products are designed to last. Rated for 50,000 hours of use, these lights provide long-term safety and reliability. They are installed under the roofline, making them less noticeable when not in use and reducing exposure to the elements.
Cost-Effectiveness:
- One-Time Investment: While DIY PHL may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional seasonal lights, they are more economical in the long run. You pay for the materials once and enjoy many years of use, avoiding the recurring expense of new lights each year.
- Value Your Time: Installing and removing seasonal lights annually is time-consuming and labor-intensive. DIY PHL saves you this hassle, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holidays with your family.
Versatility and Convenience:
- App-Controlled Lighting: Modern DIY PHL systems are app-controlled, offering a wide range of colors and effects for various occasions beyond the holiday season. This versatility adds value to your investment, as the lights can be used year-round for different celebrations and events.
For a More Customized Solution
If you donโt want to risk the ladders at all, and if you're looking for a more hidden and customized version of permanent holiday lighting, consider our professional installation services. Visit our professional home service site at astorialightingco.com/locations to see if you are in our service area.