It’s that magical time of year when lights start appearing in our homes, streets and neighbourhoods. Christmas lights can look amazing when done right but have you ever considered the safety risks? Whether you are buying them new or re-using the old ones, it is a good idea to find out the safest way to use them.
When it comes to lights – the newer, the better. The best idea is to buy new lights because every year the safety features get better. It is a wise move to look for good safety features and buy them from a store with a good reputation. It is also recommended that you should never purchase your lights second hand. If you decide to buy second hand then it would be a good idea to have them tested for electrical faults beforehand.
If you are using your lights from Christmases past, then it is a good idea to inspect them before putting them up. Not only could they have bulbs that don’t work, they may have been damaged in storage or last year whilst you were pulling them down. You should never insert or remove bulbs when the lights are switched on. Make sure the cables are intact and there are no exposed wires. If your lights appear to have any damage then the smartest idea it to dispose of them.
Christmas lights all have specific instructions to ensure you get to use them at their fullest and safest potential. When you pull them out it is a good idea to have a quick look at the manual to ensure you are doing things correctly. The biggest mistake you could make is using indoor lights outside. They aren’t equipped for dealing with our extreme summer weather or a surprising shower. When hanging your lights, you should always use sturdy equipment. Ladders and step stools can help to reach those high places. You should avoid chairs and climbing furniture to prevent falling or having an accident. Being injured is the last thing you need on Christmas day.
Even though the christmas lights may be pretty, they are definitely not toys. Especially the older ones with glass bulbs. They can get very hot. Try keep the lights out of reach of children and if you can’t then make sure they know not to touch them. When deciding where to hang your lights avoid contact with decorations. Any flammable material should be away from them and ensure they don’t become a trip hazard. Last but not least lights should be off when you are not present. Don’t go to sleep or leave your house when they are on. A timer can be very handy for helping you remember.
WDIS WA hope you all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We look forward to working with you all next year.
