There are several risks associated with using Christmas lights, primarily fire damage. Despite the rigorous checking and improved safety of LED Christmas lights, it is important to be aware and make sure you are decorating safely. Read our tips below and have a Merry Christmas!
Checking Your Christmas Lights
- Never remove or insert a bulb while the lights are plugged in.
- Every year, check to see if the cables or bulbs are damaged. If they are you will need to dispose of them safely and responsibly.
- Only use replacement bulbs that are the same type and rating as those that originally came with the lights.
- Replace broken bulbs immediately to avoid overheating.
Using Your Christmas Lights
- Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Use indoor lights indoors only, and outdoor lights outside.
- Keep lights away from possible flammable items in your home.
- Keep lights well away from young children.
- Don’t hide cables under carpets as this is a huge fire risk.
- Switch off the lights whenever you are leaving the house, or they are not needed.
- Never over load power sockets.
Buying New Christmas Lights
- Not second hand, buy from a reputable supplier
- Switch to LEDs which are safer, in comparison to high fire risk filament bulbs. LEDs are also more likely to withstand cold and damp conditions (basically British weather).
- LEDs can also have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours and are more efficient, making them the best choice for your home.
- Search for the CE Safety Standard mark or the British Safety Kitemark, on the packaging.
Storing Your Christmas Lights
- Keep lights in a protective box, away from hot or damp conditions.
- Lights should be untangled and safely padded.
- Be careful when taking lights down that you don’t damage them or use ladders in an unsafe way.
LED Christmas lights now come in a huge range of colours and designs, so the possibilities are endless for your home decoration. For more permanent LED lighting, why not consider out LED strip lighting kits here.
