Following the safety instructions on your christmas light purchases is a really good idea and here are some other considerations:
Cords and Wires
If your display contains lights, ensure that you use extension cords that have enough capacity. An overheated wire, the result of using too narrow a gauge, is a fire hazard. Make sure they're placed and secured so that tripping is unlikely.
Security
It only takes one over zealous person deciding it would be fun to damage your scene to ruin all your efforts. Security systems come in all types these days. One of the most efficient is the sort that uses a wire laid into the grass. Inexpensive and easy to install, they alert you when an intruder has crossed the line. Many have timers so you can shut them off at certain times of the day.
Accidental damage
Wind can be a problem in some areas during the Christmas season. Supporting your scene doesn't take much more than a little thought and effort. Look around your display from all angles. Give it a nudge in every direction. Using a series of stakes and ropes, short and thin boards or rods, and other props you can make a sturdy, wind-resistant display. Ensuring that your display lasts through many seasons is easy with just common sense precautions.
Rain
Most plastic displays present no problem. But scenes containing straw, cardboard or even wood can rot quickly. Mildew builds up fast on wet wood. Cardboard will become mush in a good downpour. Straw will create a home for insects even more rapidly if it gets moist.
One idea to solve this is to house your display in a tent designed to look like part of the scene. Or you can build it under an awning or roof overhang. Or you can just select materials that will weather well.
Have fun decorating your house this Christmas!.
