As the festive season approaches, getting out the Christmas lights is a great way to get into the festive spirit (and engage in a little friendly competition with the neighbours!).
However, it's important to remember that Christmas lights are electrical equipment that can be dangerous if you don't take precautions. Using your lights safely is crucial to prevent accidents and ensure a merry festive season.
In this guide, the electrical experts at NICEIC walk you through some essential tips for Christmas light safety to keep your home and family safe. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy all the beauty of your Christmas lights with full peace of mind.
Top Christmas light safety tips
Let's delve into some practical Christmas light safety tips that will help ensure your decorations are both beautiful and safe this year. These tips are designed to minimise risks and enhance the safety of your festive displays.
Buy from reputable retailers
Purchasing Christmas lights from reputable retailers is essential to ensure your decorations meet British safety standards. For example, unbranded lights sold cheaply on popular e-commerce platforms might not always conform to UK regulations for electrical safety and quality.
Choosing products from trusted retailers provides reassurance that your lights have undergone rigorous testing and certification, reducing the risk of electrical faults, fire hazards, or potential harm to your home and family. Always look for lights marked with a recognised safety certification, such as the British Standards (BS) kitemark or the CE mark, as this adds an extra layer of assurance that your festive lighting is both safe and reliable.
Inspect your lights before use
Before plugging in or hanging any lights, inspect them thoroughly. Look for signs of damage like frayed wires, broken bulbs/lamps, or any other flaws. This step is crucial as damaged lights can pose a significant safety hazard and should be discarded or repaired before use to prevent accidents both inside and outside your home. It only takes a few extra minutes, but checking your lights can save you from potential accidents and ensure your decorations shine brightly throughout the season.
Use the right lights for the right purpose
Not all Christmas lights are created equal. Some are specifically designed for indoor use, while others are made for outdoor conditions. Outdoor Christmas light safety starts with using the right type of lights. Be sure to check the labels and use outdoor-rated lights for decorations on the outside of your house or in your garden. Indoor lights may not be made to withstand the elements, not only leading to potential safety issues but also significantly shortening their life expectancy. Always ensure you have the appropriate lights for your specific needs to ensure both safety and longevity.
Avoid overloading circuits
Plugging too many lights into a single socket-outlet can lead to overheating and electrical fires. To prevent this, avoid overloading circuits – for example, by plugging lots of sets of lights into the same extension lead. Look for extension leads with built-in circuit breakers or surge protection, and certainly don’t ‘daisy chain’ your leads – i.e., plugging multiple extension leads into each other all leading back to the same socket-outlet.
For an extra layer of safety, plug your lights into socket-outlets protected by a residual current device (RCD). This is an electrical safety device that automatically switches the power off when a fault is detected, providing vital and life-saving protection against electric shocks.
Secure lights properly
When hanging lights, use clips or hooks specifically designed for this purpose. Avoid using nails or staples, as these can damage the wires and increase the risk of electrical shorts. Properly securing your lights ensures they remain in place and reduces the likelihood of damage. Additionally, it prevents lights from being blown away or knocked down by wind or other external factors. Taking the time to secure your decorations will enhance both their appearance and safety.
Outdoor Christmas light safety
One of the joys of the Christmas season is seeing all the houses lit up at night. If you’re looking to join in the fun, just remember some outdoor Christmas light safety tips to keep you and your property safe.
Weatherproof your setup
Outdoor lights may be exposed to rain, snow, and wind. Ensure all connections are weatherproof to prevent water from entering the electrical system. Weatherproofing is crucial in preventing electrical shorts and potential fires/
If you’re going to be putting up Christmas lights every year, it is probably worth getting in a registered electrician to install weatherproof, RCD-protected outdoor socket-outlets. Not only will this simplify your setup, but it will also help minimise electrical hazards and keep your property safe. If you do have to use an extension lead, purchase one rated for outdoor use from a reputable retailer.
Use the right extension lead
Although professionally installed outdoor socket-outlets are the safest option for plugging in your outdoor Christmas lights, this isn’t always a viable option for every property.
If you do have to use an extension lead, then as we mentioned above, it’s vital to purchase one rated for outdoor use from a reputable retailer. Indoor extension leads are not designed to withstand the elements, resulting in potential electrical hazards when used outside. Outdoor extension leads are built to resist moisture, low temperatures, and physical wear, making them a safer choice.
Keep lights away from flammable materials
Avoid placing lights near flammable materials such as dry leaves, paper decorations, or flammable liquids. This reduces the risk of fires, especially during dry or windy conditions. Keep a safe distance between your lights and any potential fire hazards. It's also advisable to routinely check your outdoor space for any new risks that may develop over time, such as lights that have been blown down or damaged overnight.
Safe storage and maintenance
After the festive season, properly storing and maintaining your Christmas lights can ensure they are ready for safe use next year. Taking care of your lights can prolong their lifespan and keep them in excellent condition.
Store lights properly
When storing your lights, avoid tangling cords and bulbs/lamps. Use a storage reel or wrap them around a piece of cardboard to prevent damage. Proper storage prevents unnecessary wear and tear, ensuring your lights remain functional for years to come. Store them in a cool, dry place to avoid exposure to moisture. This practice helps maintain the integrity of your lights and reduces the risk of damage during the off-season.
Check lights annually
As we mentioned earlier, it’s good practice to check your lights for damage when you take them out of storage. By dedicating a little time to inspection and upkeep, you can enjoy safe and beautiful decorations year after year.
When to call an electrician
While many aspects of decorating with Christmas lights can be tackled as DIY projects, there are specific situations where it's essential to call in a professional electrician. Recognising when to seek help can prevent accidents and ensure your festive displays are safe and secure. Here are some scenarios where an electrician is necessary:
- Frequent circuit breaker trips: if your circuit breaker or RCD trips frequently when using your Christmas lights, it could indicate an overloaded circuit or a faulty connection. An electrician can help diagnose the issue and determine if your electrical system needs upgrading or repairs.
- Flashing or flickering lights: if you notice your lights are flickering or dimming when connected, this may signal a problem with your electrical system or the lights themselves. An electrician can inspect your setup to identify the issue and may recommend replacing your lights if they’re faulty.
- Installation of permanent fixtures: if you're considering installing permanent outdoor lighting displays or socket-outlets for your holiday decorations, these tasks should be handled by a registered electrician. Getting permanent lighting properly installed by a competent and qualified electrician is crucial for the safety and longevity of your outdoor lights.
For your peace of mind and safety, it's essential to find a registered electrician with the right skills and experience to install your lighting in line with all the latest standards and regulations. You can use the NICEIC Find a Trusted Tradesperson tool to locate registered electricians in your area, ensuring you connect with professionals who are qualified and experienced in handling electrical work safely.
