Christmas Lights Safety

Christmas is almost here and one of the best ways of getting into the mood is to decorate your house by hanging up pretty lights. We’ve put together 6 things to consider before you start putting up those lights to avoid electrocution or fire.

1. Test your safety switch.

If your Christmas lights are faulty and the electrical circuit experiences a leak, the safety switch will cut the power to protect you from potential electric shocks. To test if the switch is working, press the T or Test button on the safety switch on the switchboard./electrical/safety-switch

2. Do your Christmas lights comply with Australian Safety Standards?

If you find an approval number (e.g. Q12345; V12345; N12345; NSW12345) or the regulatory compliance mark logo, you’re in the clear.

3. Don’t use indoor Christmas lights outdoors.

Indoor Christmas lights are not suitable to use outside, as they don’t have the required waterproofing. Generally outdoor lights will have a transformer.

4. Check if your Christmas lights have been recalled.

To make sure your lights haven’t been recalled due to defects etc., visit www.recalls.gov.au .

5. Don’t overload power points and circuits.

If you are using power boards or double adaptors, don’t piggyback them. Just use one per point.

6. Don’t leave the lights on unattended.

Make sure to unplug the lights or turn them off at the power point, when you’re not at home or asleep.

You might even want to consider using solar lights for your Christmas decoration this year. They are better for the environment and will keep your electricity bill lower.

To ensure you stay safe this Christmas, why not have a Fallon Solutions Master Electrician visit your home to check all your circuits before plugging in your lights. We can be there today, so simply fill in a booking form or call us on 1300 712 028.