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The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and beautiful decorations. However, it’s important to prioritise electrical safety to prevent accidents and ensure a happy and safe Christmas. Read on to learn more about ensuring electrical safety during the festive season.
Inspect your Christmas lights
Before hanging up your Christmas lights, carefully inspect them for any signs of damage such as frayed wires or broken bulbs. Replace any faulty lights and only use those that are certified for safety. You should also avoid overloading electrical outlets by connecting too many lights to a single socket.
Use outdoor lights safely
If you plan to decorate the exterior of your home with lights, ensure you use lights specifically designed for outdoor use. These lights are weatherproof and have additional safeguards against moisture and other outdoor elements. Keep the electrical connections protected from rain, snow, or other sources of moisture to prevent electrical hazards.
Take care with extension cords
When using extension cords, make sure they are rated for the intended use and are in good condition. Avoid running them under rugs or carpets, as this can lead to overheating and potential fire hazards. Additionally, do not connect multiple extension cords together, as this can overload the circuit and increase the risk of electrical accidents.
Be cautious with candles
Candles are a common sight during the holiday season, but they pose a fire hazard if not used safely. Keep candles away from flammable materials, never leave them unattended, and place them in sturdy holders on a stable surface. You could also consider using battery-operated LED candles, which provide a safe and flameless alternative.
Use timers
Using timers for your Christmas lights and decorations can help prevent unnecessary power usage and reduce the risk of electrical accidents. Set timers to turn off lights and decorations when you go to bed or leave the house to avoid leaving them on for extended periods.
Remember that water doesn’t mix with electricity
When decorating with lights or other electrical devices, keep them away from water sources. Avoid placing decorations near sinks, bathtubs, or other areas where they may come into contact with water. This will help minimise the risk of electric shock or short circuits.
Educate kids on electrical safety
Teach children about the potential dangers of electricity and how to stay safe during the holiday season. Emphasise the importance of not touching electrical outlets, cords, or decorations, and ensure they understand the dangers of playing with or around electrical equipment.
If you need electrical help this Christmas, work with the commercial electrical contractors here at Ian Hobbs Technical Services Ltd. Get in touch with us today to speak to one of our commercial electricians.