Peak industry body Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has delivered a sack full of safety tips for Aussie homeowners to refer to when purchasing and installing their Christmas lights.
Their 12-point Christmas safety checklist has been specially developed to ensure households are able to light up their homes with festive decorations while keeping themselves safe.
MEA CEO Kate Raymond said the checklist ranged from tips on purchasing quality products, through to installation recommendations.
“Draping the house in Christmas decorations is a much-loved tradition for households right across Australia and it certainly lights up the festive season,” Ms Raymond said.
“It’s important that Australians be vigilant when it comes to electrical safety as they begin to deck their homes in Christmas lights.
“Australians need to be careful not to buy inferior products from overseas that don’t meet Australian standards, while also taking simple but effective steps to safely install Christmas decorations.
“That’s why MEA is providing a checklist of safety tips to assist homeowners to correctly install Christmas lights and prevent tragedy.”
The safety checklist includes action items such as buying lights from recognised retailers, only using low-voltage lights, and ensuring outdoor installations are protected against the weather.
The full list is available to download from www.masterelectricians.com.au/christmas-checklist
Ms Raymond recommended taking the time to research products to ensure they meet Australia’s high safety standard levels. Other measures that homeowners should embrace include using safety switches, only using lights designed for outside use and keeping connections weatherproof and out of reach of children.
“Don’t be tempted to purchase cheap LED lights online. These products may save a few dollars but could prove far more costly if they do damage to your property or a loved one.
“Carefully inspect lights for any cuts, nicks, exposed wire or discoloration to fittings. If your product is damaged or doesn’t look right, get it checked by a licensed master electrician.
“There is no substitute for safety when it comes to anything electrical. MEA wants all Australians to have a memorable and safe festive season.
Christmas lights safety checklist:
1. Check for the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) on your lights or transformer/s. Some may also include the approval number eg. Q12345, V01294 or N12345. (If unsure, visit www.eess.gov.au)
2. Visit www.productsafety.gov.au to check for any recalled Christmas lights – even the best retailer’s issue these from time to time.
3. Ensure you have safety switches installed. Check that it works by pushing the test button and seeing that the lights operate.
4. Are you using extra low voltage lights? – Tip. Look for lights with a transformer.
5. Ensure your outdoor lights are designed for external use.
6. No 240-volt cabling to any outside garden beds or lights.
7. Ensure your outdoor connections are weatherproof and secured out of the reach of children.
8. All your decorations are always kept clear of powerlines, swimming pools, driveways and walkways.
9. Ensure that your always safely turn off outdoor lights during rain or storms.
10. Do NOT piggyback any double adapters or power boards.
11. Go with solar lights if you can – it’s better for the environment and safer for you.
12. Replace the batteries in all your smoke detectors.
