The American Electric Light Company LLC

The primary concern regarding the safety of a light fixture is over-lamping.
Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has identified this as the number one cause
for light fixture failure. In most cases the maximum wattage bulb
recommended for ceiling and wall mounted fixtures is 60 watts. This is
based on many different elements including type and orientation of sockets,
the type of wire used, and the shade enclosure verses ventilation, bulb
proximity to wiring, etc., etc.. Table and floor lamps with upward facing
sockets can often use a higher wattage bulb due to better ventilation, and
electrical components not being exposed to damaging heat.

A few good rules................

Always have a qualified electrician install your light fixtures.

Use the specified maximum watt bulb (or lower) on all light fixtures. If
more light is needed use table and floor lamps for specific light, do not
add higher wattage bulbs then recommended.

If a light fixture fails to work properly, causes fuses to blow or circuit
breakers to trip, there is a reason! Have the fixture checked as soon as
possible.

Replace worn components. Most lamp stores can replace a worn cord
or socket for a very modest fee.

Never place lamp cords where they can be pinched, crimped, stepped
on, or tripped over. Always remove plugs from the sockets by pulling
on the plug, not the cord.

The American Electric Light Company uses the highest quality electrical
components available. With brand names like Leviton and Heyco, and parts
suppliers such as B&P Lamp Supply, Midwest Lamp Parts, Yankee Barn
Lighting Co., and W. N. de Sherbinin, The American Electric Light
Company LLC is able to access the safest components available. In
addition, The American Electric Light Company uses only components that
have been recognized by Underwriters Laboratories as meeting or exceeding
their strict safety standards. High quality parts and years of experience
combine to enable The American Electric Light Company to provide the
safest lighting services available.