Safety Tips for Decorative Lights
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Ensure your party lights don't become dangerous with the following safety tips.
Whether it's Christmas, a party or any special occasion, decorative lights can really add to the atmosphere, however as with any electrical setup they also need to be treated with respect to ensure they don't become a risk to you, your family or your home.
While the basic lighting kits can be installed by an amateur, it's important to remember that any actual electrical work around your home must be carried out by a professional. Find certified electricians by posting your electrical job with Service Central.
Ensure the lights are compliant
Before attempting to install any decorative lights, ensure they follow Australian Standards and bear the regulatory compliance mark (a tick in a triangle). There should also be an approval number, found on the lights themselves and also on the packaging.
Ensure you're protected by safety switches
Safety Switches prevent electric shock by automatically switching off the power if they detect any leak in current. They're available as permanent fixtures installed by a certified electrician and also as portable units. The portable units are suitable for appliances such as drills as well as decorative lights.
Before you begin setting up your lights
- Check all your extension leads and cabling for any damage. If you find any, do not use them.
- Look up - are you planning on installing anything too close to overhead powerlines?
- Keep out of reach of children. Ensure your lighting setup won't be within the reach of children or incautious adults.
- Avoid setting up any temporary lights near or around pools and spas
- If you plan on having multiple sets of lights purchase a power board with overload protection. 'Piggy backing' using double adapters is not advisable.
- If you plan on using halogen lights or flood lights then be aware that these can get very hot. Keep them away from anything flammable.
When setting up outdoor decorative lights...
- Only use lights intended to be used outdoors
- Weatherproof your extension leads with handy accessories that cover and protect plugs
- Use extra low voltage lights (12V or 24V), especially for on fences, roofs and downpipes.
- Secure the lights firmly to ensure they aren't broken or damaged in wind or storms
- Turn off your decorative outdoor lights during storms and rain
General decorative lighting safety hints
- Always turn the lights off when you go to bed
- Do not attempt to alter or make modifications to the lights
- Fully unwind any extension cords to prevent overheating
- Test your safety switches regularly to ensure you're protected
With all this in mind, enjoy your beautiful, safe, decorative lighting display.
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