SRP, the Valley’s largest provider of electricity, urges customers to stay safe this holiday season when working with decorative lights, surge protectors and extension cords.

Every year, fire departments across the nation respond to home fires that started with Christmas trees or holiday lighting, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

“Please remember to check all of your holiday lights and power cords to make sure they are in proper, working condition,” Juana Hernandez of SRP Safety Connection said.

SRP offers free materials about electric safety. Visit www.srpnet.com/safety to request printed materials and to read additional tips.

SRP offers the following tips that apply to everyone working with holiday lighting and electric holiday decorations:

Check every strand of lights -- even brand new sets -- for damaged sockets, loose connections or frayed cords. Also look for exposed wire due to damage on the cord's coating. Discard damaged cords to prevent fire hazard.

Only purchase or use lights that have been approved as tested for safety. Look for a tag or label that states Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL) on it to ensure the lights have been properly tested after manufacture.

Use only outdoor extension cords when working with outdoor decor. The cord should also have a UL label or tag on it.

Unplug tree lights and decorative outdoor lighting and other illuminated holiday decor before going to bed or leaving your home.

Use automatic timers to ensure your lights aren't left on. Make sure the cords do not sit in water left by sprinklers or irrigation systems.

Double check that all walkways and walking areas indoors are safe by keeping the cords well out of these areas.