November 29, 2022
With Christmas just a few weeks away, Ergon Energy is reminding customers to treat Christmas lights and other powered decorations the same way as they would treat any other electrical appliance.
Spokesperson Matt Hilder said taking a few simple precautions when installing Christmas lights could mean the difference between a happy festive season and a potentially life-threatening nightmare.
“Powered Christmas decorations should be treated as you would treat any electrical appliance in the home,” he said.
“When used properly they’re safe. But when used incorrectly, they can become potentially deadly hazards.”
One important precaution before installing any powered Christmas decorations was to check that the wires, fittings and lights are in good working order.
“If you have concerns, either have them checked and repaired by a qualified technician or simply throw them out,” he said.
Another common sense precaution was to ensure that lights marked for outdoor use were only used outside the home.
Another was to avoid overloading power points when running multiple devices.
“And when installing lights outside, remember to ‘Look Up And Live’ by never placing them near the powerline that feeds your home from the power pole on the street.”
Mr Hilder also recommended that people only buy powered decorations that are of high quality from known retailers, and pack them away securely after the festive season.
“Our crews have seen people buy Christmas lights that are faulty right out of the box – some with exposed 240 volt wires,” he said.
“When purchasing any powered decoration, you should always buy from reputable retailers and keep away from cheap ones that don’t comply with Australian standards.
“And finally – to ensure your Christmas lights are in good condition for next year – it’s best to pack them neatly away from moisture and where vermin such as mice can’t damage them when not in use.”
- Related article: Beware Of Dodgy Christmas Lights
