Are Inflatable Holiday Yard Decorations Safe?

Inflatable holiday decorations for yards, such as spooky pumpkins and skeletons for Halloween or jolly Santa and reindeer for Christmas, are generally safe to use. Not to mention, they add a festive charm to neighborhoods. When properly installed and maintained, inflatable decorations carry minimal risk of injury. However, poor placement, inadequate anchoring, or electrical malfunctions can create hazards, resulting in:

Emergency rooms see many patients who mishandle decor during Halloween and other holidays. Take this Holiday Safety Report for the 2022-2023 holiday season. Here, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recorded over 14,900 ER visits. Notably, this figure only covers Christmas decorating injuries.

Being proactive about safety can help prevent electrical shocks, fires, and property damage. Homeowners have a responsibility to ensure decorations are set up correctly to protect their family, guests, and nearby residents. If you suffered injuries because of an inflatable holiday yard decoration, you may have grounds to seek compensation.

Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to initiate a personal injury case or a product liability claim. After an accident, you may be thinking, “I need a personal injury lawyer,” and are looking for free accident lawyer advice. Reach out to AK Law at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a one-on-one complimentary case review with one of our attorneys.

What Are The Most Common Hazards Of Inflatable Yard Decorations In California?

Californians typically decorate their yards for Halloween, Christmas, the Fourth of July, and other notable American holiday celebrations. During Halloween, for example, you see front yards clad with spider webs, fog machines, spooky lights, fake graves, large inflatable ghosts, and skeletons. These displays make a fun experience for trick-or-treaters in the area. However, if set up incorrectly, they could cause serious injuries.

Dangers related to holiday decorations occur at different times of the year. The CPSC’s Holiday Safety Report reports a daily average of 160 Christmas decorating accidents during the holidays. Falls make up almost half of these incidents.

Holiday yard decorations can pose unexpected risks, even when carefully set up. Poor maintenance could lead to incidents that endanger both the homeowners and visitors. Here are some of the most frequent risks associated with holiday yard decor:

• Tripping Hazards — Guests might trip over cords, stakes, or low decorations, especially in low-light conditions. Trips and falls may cause sprains, bruises, or fractures.
• Unstable Inflatables or Decorations — Inflatables that aren’t secured might fall or get blown by the wind and injure nearby people.
• Electrical Risks — Overloaded outlets, damaged cords, or exposed wires can cause shocks, burns, or fires if not closely monitored.
• Obstructive Decorations — Blocked paths can potentially slow down evacuations during emergencies. They may increase the risk of falls or injuries during a fire.

How To Address Hazards In Your Inflatable Yard Decoration Setup

Improper installation or maintenance of these inflatable yard decorations can lead to safety risks. California homeowners have to be aware of the potential risks associated with these setups. Doing so can be the first step toward a safe and festive home.

Here are common dangers and how to address them:

• Inadequate Setup — Loose wires or inflated decorations that need stakes or stands may cause slip-and-fall accidents. Tie down inflatable decorations to prevent them from falling over or getting blown away.
• Electrical Hazards — Always use outdoor-rated extension cords and ensure that all electrical connections are secure and protected from moisture. Inspect cords for damage before use.
• Deflation and Inflation — Inflating or deflating decorations can sometimes cause injuries. Be cautious when handling fans or zippers to prevent injury. Never insert hands or limbs near moving parts, and supervise the inflation or deflation process.
• Visibility Issues — Large inflatables might block drivers’ views in busy areas, which can lead to crashes. Position decorations in a way that doesn’t block driveways, streets, or sidewalks. Consider using smaller inflatables in high-traffic areas to ensure clear sightlines. This may help reduce the risk of accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists, as well as the number of accidents involving electric scooters and e-bikes in residential areas.
• Decoration Clutter — When several neighbors use inflatables, yards may become crowded and messy. Clutter may increase the risk of accidents and tripping. Keep your yard tidy and avoid overcrowding with inflatables. Ensure pathways and entrances remain clear to minimize tripping hazards.

Who Is Liable For Injuries From Holiday Yard Inflatables?

Depending on your case, different parties may share liability for injuries caused by inflatable yard decorations:

• Homeowners — Homeowners may be legally responsible for injuries caused by negligent actions, such as:
• Negligence in Property Maintenance — A homeowner may be liable if they fail to address hazards. These could include exposed wires or icy paths.
• Ignoring Safety Warnings — Homeowners might cause an accident by using decorations unsafely. For example, they may have placed large inflatables near a doorway.
• Property Owners’ Associations — These groups may have rules against inflatables. Failing to follow these rules could make homeowners liable for any injuries that may result.
• Manufacturers — The manufacturer may be responsible for injuries caused by defects in inflatable decorations.
• Event Coordinators — Event planners may share liability for injuries at public events involving inflatables.

The Role Of Negligence In Injuries From Inflatable Yard Decorations

If you suffered harm in an inflatable yard decoration accident, consider learning about liability. Victims may have the right to sue those responsible for their injuries. In this scenario, potential at-fault parties may include a negligent manufacturer, property manager, or homeowner.

Negligence is a common factor leading to injuries. It occurs when someone fails to show the same level of care that a reasonable person would in a similar situation. You can establish negligence by proving four key elements:

1. Someone owes you a duty of care.
2. They failed to uphold that duty.
3. Their actions or inaction directly led to your injuries.
4. You incurred damages, such as pain and suffering, medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.

Within the context of inflatable holiday yard decorations, a person could be negligent if they:

• Carelessly handle decorations.
• Fail to maintain decorations.
• Ignore safety precautions in the manuals.

Strict Liability For Faulty Inflatable Decorations

Meanwhile, strict liability applies to defective inflatable decorations. Manufacturers or retailers could be held accountable for selling or distributing dangerous or faulty products. As long as their products cause injury to someone, strict liability could apply, regardless of negligence.

Victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Filing a product liability claim might also encourage safer product designs and responsible use.

Community Rules And Local Regulations

Before you start searching for or installing decorations, check for any applicable restrictions. Homeowners’ associations or local authorities may have strict rules about inflatables.

Consider the regulations that govern unincorporated areas in Orange County. Here, residents need an “encroachment” permit for holiday displays. These can include strings of lights over public spaces, such as streets and sidewalks.

Some communities limit the size or number of certain decorations. They may set specific dates and times for displays. Others might require decorations to be a certain distance from the sidewalk. Some places even ban inflatable holiday yard decorations altogether.

These regulations aim to preserve the community’s attractiveness. In some cases, they’re also meant to safeguard the health and safety of residents. Noncompliance may result in a substantial fine or penalty.

Holiday festivities can sometimes lead to other holiday hazards, such as DUI risks. During these festive times, homeowners should also be mindful of holiday driving safety tips, especially with increased traffic and distractions on the roads.

Tips For Setting Up Holiday Inflatables In Your Yard Safely

Inflatable holiday yard decorations have been popular for years. They almost replaced the lightweight, painted plastic ones of the past. However, they present their own challenges.

If you want to use inflatable decorations, be cautious with setup, care, and takedown. Taking extra precautions can reduce the risk of accidents and liabilities.

Here are some important safety guidelines:

Secure Your Inflatable Decorations

The last thing you want is for your holiday inflatables to blow down the street. This could lead to property damage, car accidents, or even fire hazards. Follow all the packaging directions to secure your inflatable decorations properly.

Most inflatables come with stakes. However, you can add more weight for added stability. Use a rope or place small sandbags around the edges to secure the area. Additionally, create enough space around the inflatable decorations in your yard. This may help keep everyone safe and prevent any legal issues down the line.

Place Your Decors On A Flat, Level Surface

Keep inflatables away from plants or shrubs that they could damage. Instead, place them on level, flat ground. Clear away snow, leaves, and debris before setup. This helps prevent sharp objects from being under the inflatables.

Test Exterior Outlets

Ensure your outdoor electrical equipment is in good working condition. It should be able to handle different weather conditions. Any extension cords you use must be rated for outdoor use. Finally, verify that all outlets function properly.

Avoid Overloading Outlets

Don’t overload a single plug with too many devices or decorations. This can lead to fire risks. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association reports that Halloween decorations were responsible for 832 home structure fires between 2019 and 2023. Electrical hazards were a common contributing factor. That said, always use GFCI-protected circuits for outdoor lights and decorations.

Keep Electrical Connections Safe

Protect connections from water damage. Use methods designed for outdoor use only. Simply wrapping connections with electrical tape won’t keep them waterproof. Instead, it may trap humidity.

What to do:

• Cover plugs and connectors with outdoor-rated plastic covers or waterproof extension cord covers.
• To prevent water from accumulating, keep all connections high off the ground.

Nowadays, many decorations are inflatable, powered by compressed air. They thus have the capacity to produce static electricity. In the event of a high wind or electrical storm, be cautious and turn off the displays.

Switch Off Inflators Accordingly

Select the best times of day to exhibit your decorations. Operating blower motors for more than three hours at a time could cause them to burn out. Deflating your display overnight is ideal. Avoid inflating it before, during, or right after bad weather.

What to do:

• Set a timer to turn off decorations automatically at night or after a few hours.
• Turn off decorations when it’s raining, snowing, or windy. Humidity can cause risks.

Actions To Take If Injured By Holiday Decorations In California

Injured by holiday decorations on someone else’s property? Taking certain steps may help protect your rights. For instance, you can:

1. Seek medical attention as soon as possible and retain all relevant documentation.
2. Record the scene. Take photos of where you got injured. Include details such as lighting and decoration setup. You can also document other relevant conditions, such as the presence of snow or ice.
3. Ask the homeowner for their contact information. If there are witnesses, get their details as well. They might be able to provide supporting testimony.
4. Notify your insurance provider. They can assist you in handling any claims and help you understand your coverage.
5. Talk to a personal injury lawyer. They can help you understand your rights. You can also learn whether taking legal action might be necessary.

If unsafe decorations or poor property conditions caused your injuries, contact Arash Law. Our personal injury lawyers can guide you through your claim. Our guide on what to do if injured on someone else’s property provides comprehensive information to help you navigate such situations.

*This overview is provided for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

You may have legal questions about inflatable holiday yard decorations in California. People often want to know how to set them up safely. They also ask what to do if someone gets hurt and if insurance covers these accidents. Here, we answer some of those questions.

Are Holiday Inflatable Yard Decorations Safe To Use?

Yes, they are generally safe to use. Like all outdoor holiday decorations, however, they may pose electrical safety risks. To avoid shocks, fires, and damage, take proper precautions. Leverage weatherproof extension cords and safe power sources for lights and inflatables. Use UL-listed extension cables and cord covers for outdoor areas where people walk.

You can also include recurring checks in your setup routine:

• Are there any small holes or areas of stress in the seams? Don’t wait to patch it.
• Does the blower motor run steadily and quietly? If the inflatable is sputtering or growling, it may be choking on leaves.
• Are all of the zippers closed? Inflatables typically have zippers at their base. Leaving them open could ruin your setup.

Inflatables are entertaining, visually appealing, and just plain enjoyable. However, they require a little care to function well, just like anything else that plugs in, blows up, and sits outside in potentially erratic weather.

To set up holiday yard inflatables, start with a good plan. Ensure you have sufficient supplies, such as anchors and power cords. Place your decorations in areas where they won’t get damaged. Remove any hazards, such as rocks, nails, or tree branches, from the area. You can then install them safely. Roll up the inflatables, connect the electricity, inflate them, check for air leaks, and secure them in place.

Is It Safe To Leave Holiday Yard Inflatables On All Night?

Leaving your inflatables and decorations on all night may seem tempting, but it’s not wise. Long-term use can cause motors and lights to overheat, raising the risk of electrical fires or equipment damage.

There are no laws that prohibit the use of inflatable decorations overnight. However, it’s essential to consider community norms and local rules. Certain neighborhoods may have regulations on lighting or noise levels. Additionally, you may wish to show consideration for your neighbors. For example, you might want to minimize the potential disturbances your decorations might cause at night.

Also, be sure to fasten your holiday decorations securely. Use power carefully to keep everything safe. This way, you can enjoy your inflatable holiday decorations without worrying about accidents.

Are Inflatable Decorations A Fire Hazard?

People often use electric decorations to illuminate their homes during the holidays. Using more energy for inflatable lawn displays could overload your circuits. It may also pose a fire risk. Being aware of the dangers allows you to take preventive measures for home safety.

An overloaded outlet could cause arcing, overheating, and electrical fires. Consider avoiding the long-term use of inflatable decorations to eliminate fire hazards. You can also use different outlets for your inflatables. Finally, look for any broken wires or overheating components. If they’re present, replace or repair them promptly.

Will Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Decoration Injuries?

According to the California Department of Insurance, different types of coverage could help in this matter:

Personal Liability

This part of the homeowners’ policy may cover you or a household member if you are legally responsible for someone else’s injuries. Coverage E usually offers defense and pays for damages, but some exceptions apply. The liability policy will not cover certain circumstances, such as intentional acts. Your insurance policy should contain all of the precise language and exclusions.

Medical Payments To Others

If someone gets injured on your property, this policy may cover their reasonable medical expenses. Suppose a neighbor’s child is injured while playing at your home. If so, the medical payments part of your homeowners’ insurance could cover those costs.

This coverage does not apply to injuries to you or your household members. You cannot replace it with health insurance. Additionally, this coverage does not include business operations. Your insurance has all of the exclusions and specific language.

Insurance plans and benefits differ by provider and policy. The details shared here don’t guarantee coverage in every case. That said, be sure to read your homeowners’ insurance policy. You can also discuss your plan with your insurance agent to understand what it includes and what it doesn’t.

Risks Generally Covered By A Homeowners Policy

Depending on the applicable insurance, a homeowner’s policy will generally cover damage caused by:

• Lightning or fire
• Vehicles
• Explosions
• Smoke
• Falling objects
• Unintentional and unexpected water damage
• Glass breakage

What Does It Cost To Hire A Personal Injury Lawyer In California?

There is no set cost for hiring a personal injury attorney in California. The price of legal representation often depends on the specifics of a case. For example, an attorney may charge more if an inflatable accident involves many at-fault parties. The same applies if a case needs to go to court.

However, you won’t necessarily have to pay a lawyer up front. Arash Law Firm (AK Law Firm) takes cases on a contingency fee basis. Our clients only pay attorney fees if they’re able to collect compensation. However, they may still incur additional costs not covered by this agreement.

We also offer a complimentary initial consultation with an accident lawyer to injured victims. During these consultations, you can discuss your case and explore the legal options available to you. You can also consult with our lawyers to discuss associated fees. Ensure you fully understand all costs before hiring a potential lawyer.

Suppose you have a valid case and choose to work with the attorneys at Arash Law. In that case, we can discuss our payment system before pursuing your inflatable accident claim in California.

If A Holiday Yard Decoration Injures Me, What Is My Deadline To File A Personal Injury Claim In California?

In California, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the date of the injury. This rule covers accidents from defective products, unsafe premises, or negligent actions.

Some situations can extend or “toll” the statute of limitations:

• Injured Minors — If the victim is under 18, the two-year period starts on their 18th birthday. Minors typically have until their 20th birthday to file a lawsuit.
• Victims with Mental Incapacity — If a person is mentally incapacitated at the time of the injury and cannot understand their rights, the time limit may pause. It resumes when they regain capacity or a guardian is appointed.

A parent, legal guardian, or conservator can file a claim on behalf of an injured minor or incapacitated person. Additionally, if you think your injury came from a defective or unsafe holiday product, you can help others by reporting it to:

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at SaferProducts.gov.
• The manufacturer or retailer where you bought the product.

Keep any receipts, packaging, and photos of the product, as well as documentation of your injuries. These can be key evidence for your claim.

Timelines can vary, so it’s vital to consult a personal injury lawyer to find the right filing deadline for your case. Our law firm can assess your case, check filing deadlines, and guide you in seeking compensation for your injuries.

How Arash Law Can Help

Injured by inflatable holiday yard decorations? Consider learning about your legal options. A premises liability attorney can assist in assessing your losses. If you have a case, we can help collect important evidence and hold the property owner responsible for negligence.

At Arash Law, we offer thorough legal support for clients injured by:

• Defective products (including unsafe yard decorations)
• Premises liability hazards (like unsafe property conditions leading to slip-and-falls)
• Vacation and recreational accidents

We also have car accident lawyers who can assist you if you sustained injuries in a holiday driving accident. We can help check whether the homeowner took reasonable safety steps. Then, we’ll discuss whether you can seek compensation for your injuries and other losses.

For a free initial consultation, you can contact Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have A Case?” form here.