What is a recommended practice when replacing a light bulb?

Turning off the power before handling the bulb is essential for safety reasons. When replacing a light bulb, the electrical circuit should be de-energized to prevent the risk of electric shock. Light fixtures can hold residual power even when they appear to be off, and handling the bulb while the power is still on poses a significant safety hazard. By ensuring the power is turned off, you minimize the risks associated with electricity and create a safer working environment.

Other practices mentioned, such as wearing gloves or using a ladder safely, can help, but the priority is always to eliminate the immediate danger of electrical shock by cutting power to the fixture. While handling a light bulb, particularly incandescent or halogen types, it's often recommended to let them cool down and use gloves to prevent skin oils from damaging the bulb, but these precautions do not replace the fundamental necessity of turning off the power to ensure safety during the replacement process.