Christmas holidays cannot be complete without colourful lights and beautiful decorations inside and around our homes. But while decorating your home, yard, or business is a fun and cheerful way to revel in the season, it can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries. Lighting, in general, is a big part of Christmas decorations, but the much-loved pretty Christmas lights can quickly dim the Christmas spirit if not used correctly. So, before you get to installing your Christmas lights and other decorations this holiday, understanding essential safety guidelines can help keep you and your family safe.
Although perfect for creating the right mood for the festivities, Christmas decorations pose a significant hazard both inside and outside your home. Fires, falls, cuts, and back strains are some of the common risk incidents associated with installing Christmas decorations. It is, therefore, essential to observe proper preparation and safety practices to avoid dangers associated with your holiday decorations.
Hanging up decorations seems like a straightforward task, but you will be surprised to learn just how fatal it can turn out to be. Simple mistakes like failing to use the right tools and equipment, can leave you with serious injuries. For example, deciding to step on furniture to hang up Christmas lights instead of using a step stool or ladder can cause a fall with devastating effects.
Christmas lights are the go-to decorations for the festivities around the world. The tiny twinkling string lights, when installed correctly, can be completely safe and are an easy way to set the festivities mood right. However, when using them, you need to follow some precautions:
Outdoor Christmas lights meet additional safety standards that ensure they can withstand the elements. They will have an IP rating to show how weatherproof they are. The higher the IP number, the better the weatherproof rating, but the minimum acceptable rating is IP23. To keep your outdoor lights safe, you must use suitable extension leads and power boards, which are weather-resistant. Also, avoid running cords over walkways, driveways, or doorways to prevent them from damage.
Indoor Christmas lights should only be used indoors. Indoor lights cannot be used outdoors since they don’t have weatherproof ratings. Today, LED lights are preferred for indoor decorating since they use little electricity, have a longer life, and don’t get hot. They tend to cost more than incandescent light strings, but the power savings are worth it.
Planning your holiday decorations is the first step to safety. Be sure to check if the smoke alarms and other safety devices are working correctly. Also, evaluate the areas you are planning to decorate and determine if the decorations you plan to use are suitable and safe for the space. If using decorations that have been in storage, make sure to inspect them beforehand and dispose of any that are damaged. Also, read packaging instructions, especially on electrical decorations, to ensure you are using them properly and to avoid the risk of fires or electrocution.
Using the right tools to install your decorations is also essential. For example, when installing lights, consider using factory-made extension leads or those from a licensed electrical contractor.
It is crucial to consider the risk of fire hazards when putting up your Christmas decorations. Putting safety at the forefront will help you avoid problems and fully enjoy the holidays. Some tips to prepare and prevent fires include:
If you run into any issues or are still trying to figure out what to do when installing your Christmas lights, Astley Electrical is here to help. Our dedicated team of experienced electricians can provide you with expert advice and solutions for any problems you encounter. Call us today to learn more or schedule a service.
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