It's time to start planning your Christmas decorations. And, an important part of that planning process involves electrical safety. So, here are a few precautions:

1. Don't hang outside lights using metal connectors. However, if you already have them, sleeve the hooks with an insulating layer of plastic tubing.

2. Don't use indoor lights outside. You can save a little money doing so, but it's not worth a house fire.

3. Don't buy lights unless they are UL approved. We are in a world market and not every seller is concerned about how safe his product is. Use common sense when it comes to long strings of lights. Too many on a line can mean overheating and a possible fire. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and plan on a safe holiday season.

And that's the On The House tip for today.