It's the most wonderful time of the year, but as a homeowner, it can be the most hazardous. 

According to the National Safety Council,  15,000 injuries involving holiday decorating were seen in emergency rooms during the 2012 season. So while the holiday season is all about gifts, family and an endless number of Christmas albums playing at all hours of the day -- there are some precautions to take. 

From replacing faulty string lights to inspecting your stocking-adorned fireplace, these hacks are simple but go a long way. Here are five ways to prepare for this holiday season ahead. 

Be Bright About Your Christmas Lights

Christmas string lights add cheer and magic glow to any tree or room, but they can be unsafe.

Carefully inspect holiday light strings and remove any items with frayed wires, loose connections or broken sockets. If you have a string light that generally works minus a few bulbs, just purchase a new one entirely. 

Also, the certification mark of an accredited organization such as "CSA International," "UL," or "ELT" can ensure that the product you've purchased is up-to-code, even if it means spending a dollar or two extra.

And finally, be sure to turn off Christmas lights before going to bed.

Have Eight Crazy (And Safe) Nights

Lighting the menorah for all eight nights is a Hanukah tradition. Though menorahs are usually small, they are still a risk.

Don't put your menorah near anything flammable, like a tree, and if you're leaving the candles lit (during Hanukah you're not supposed to put them out yourself) then make sure they've dwindled away by the time you go to sleep. 

Also, test your smoke alarms to make sure they work. 

Take Care When Adding Flair

If you like to "keep up with the Jones's" by decorating your home for the holidays, be extra careful with your craftsmanship. If you use a ladder, be sure you're using the correct one for the job, don't reach too far to place anything and never stand on a chair or other furniture.

Also, if you're plugging in lights, never put more than one extension chord together. 

Safety Is Ornamental

Decorating the tree is one of the best parts of Christmas, but safety is still worth pining for.

For the sake of any children in the house, move ornaments that are breakable or have metal hooks toward the top. Also, keep your tree watered and away from open candles or fireplaces. In case of emergencies, know where your fire extinguisher is located. 

Home Is Where The Hearth Is

Gathering around the fireplace is another holiday must, but safety is a must too. Remember not to burn wreaths, wrapping paper or any trash in the fireplace. Also, check and clean your chimney and fireplace area at least once a year if you're going to use it. And don't leave your fire raging when you've gone to bed.