Christmas Light Safety: Decoration and Safety Tips

Christmas is a time of celebration, and in Perth, homes are often adorned with impressive displays of lights. While these festive decorations bring joy, they also pose electrical safety risks if not used correctly. Electrical faults, overloaded circuits, and improper installation can turn your holiday season into a safety nightmare. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common dangers of Christmas lights and how to avoid them to ensure a safe and happy festive season.

Common Dangers of Christmas Lights

1. Electrical Overloads Overloading: power boards with too many lights are a common mistake. This can lead to tripped circuits, overheating, or even electrical fires. Summer heat in Perth exacerbates the risk as overloaded wires can overheat more quickly.
2. Faulty or Non-Compliant Lights: Cheap, non-compliant lights are a significant hazard. Imported products that do not meet Australian safety standards can cause shocks or fires. Older lights with frayed cords or broken bulbs also pose a danger.
3. Weather Exposure: Although Perth's Christmas season is warm, summer storms can damage outdoor lights, leading to short circuits or water-related hazards. Make sure your outdoor Christmas lights are Australian-compliant, so they are practical for the summer heat. 
4. Improper Installation: Staples or nails used to hang lights can puncture wires, low hanging lights and extension leads can be a risk for children and pets. Accidentally cutting the wires, can lead to an electric shock or start a fire. When you decorate for Christmas, take care to safely hang decorations and lights at a safe height and secure them securely without damaging the cords.
5. Using Indoor Lights Outdoors: is another common mistake. Ensure your Christmas lights are specifically for outdoor use if you want them outside. 

How to Avoid These Dangers

Buying Christmas Lights

• Make sure you buy your lights from a reputable dealer and that they meet the latest safety requirements.
• Always buy lights with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM).

Avoid Electrical Overloads

• Use surge-protected power boards with in-built safety switches.
• Avoid daisy-chaining multiple extension cords.

Use Weatherproof Options Outdoors

• Select lights specifically designed for outdoor use.
• Ensure all connections are sealed and protected from rain.

Follow Safe Installation Practices

• Use insulated clips or hooks instead of staples or nails.
  Secure ladders properly to prevent falls during light installation.

Turn Off Lights When Not in Use

• Switch off lights when leaving the house or going to bed to reduce overheating risks.

Check Your Old Christmas Lights

Even if your lights have been sitting in a box for the last 12 months, make sure to test them before installation to ensure they work and are safe. When installing, keep lights away from flammable materials such as curtains or dry foliage, and ensure children and pets cannot reach cords. 

When to Call a Professional

If your home’s wiring is old or you’re planning an elaborate display, consult a licensed electrician, who can assess your electrical system’s capacity and ensure everything is safe.

Christmas lights bring magic to the festive season, but safety should always come first. By choosing compliant products, avoiding overloads, and following proper installation practices, you can enjoy a safe and joyful holiday. For more help, get in contact with ECA WA.