More house fires happen during the Christmas period than at any other time of year.
While Christmas lights dazzle and delight all ages, they can lead to accidents or fires.
“Christmas lights add a wonderful sparkle to the festive period, but safety must come first,” Electrical expert Chris Madikian, from The Local Electrician, said.
“Christmas is, unfortunately, the worst time of the year for house fires, with overloaded power points, faulty decorations, and unattended lights being common culprits.
“A simple check of your lights and following basic precautions can prevent accidents and fires.”
Chris Madikian shared seven tips to help you enjoy your festive light displays without compromising on safety.
Choose the right lights
Make sure you’re using lights specifically labelled for indoor or outdoor purposes. Outdoor lights can handle rain, while indoor lights can’t.
Opt for LEDs over traditional incandescent bulbs. LEDs are cooler, energy-efficient, and safer to use.
Check your lights first
Look for broken bulbs, frayed wires, or loose plugs. If anything looks damaged, replace it.
Use a surge protector
A surge protector helps keep your lights safe from power surges, especially during bad weather.
Don’t overload your power points
Follow the manufacturer’s guidance on how many light strands you can connect. Overloading power points could result in overheating or fire.
Keep outdoor connections dry
Use waterproof extension cords and covers for outdoor lights and power points to protect them from rain or damp conditions.
Hang lights properly
Avoid using nails or staples to hang lights, as they can damage wires. Instead, opt for plastic clips or hooks.
Use a timer or smart plug
A timer or smart plug can switch your lights off automatically after a few hours, saving energy and preventing overheating.
