Sparkies are warning households to take every precaution to prevent an electrical emergency caused by dodgy Christmas light displays this festive season.
Electrical industry and safety advocates Master Electricians Australia has issued an alert to consumers to take extra care purchasing and installing Christmas light displays.
“We’re seeing more and more people get into the festive spirit to light up the neighbourhood but unfortunately, more people are also buying suspect LED lights from overseas or installing lighting without the safety backup necessary to provide adequate protection,’’ Master Electricians Australia CEO Malcolm Richards said.
“Kids love these displays but that’s why homeowners need to make sure they have the right layers of safety protection in place to prevent any accidents.’’
Master Electrician Australia vice-president and sparkie Chris Lehmann advised homeowners to buy lighting products only from recognised retailers to ensure the products they are using meet Australian standards.
“Don’t be tempted to buy LED lights online or at the markets, even if local stores such as Kmart, Bunnings and other reputable resellers look like they’ve run low on stock,’’ Mr Lehmann warned.
“LED lights from overseas might be cheap but more than likely they won’t meet Australian standards.’’
He also advised consumers to install safety switches, never to run 240-volt power leads to the outside, to garden beds, for example, and warned not to use indoor lights outside.
“Make sure you use or have approved outdoor connection boxes installed,’’ Mr Lehmann said. “Before you plug any lights in, look them over for any cuts, nicks, exposed wire or discoloration to fittings.
“Basically, look it over and if it doesn’t look right don’t use it or get it checked, preferably by a Master Electrician.’’
