Christmas tree lights, and in particular those that have been coiled up in storage for a year, could harbour faults which might cause an electric shock or fire. Fortunately, all that is needed to make sure that your tree lights are safe to use are a few simple checks:
- Check to ensure that the lights are fitted with an approved plug with a 3 amp fuse or a mains transformer;
- Wires should be double insulated, and firmly attached to the plug by the cord restraint;
- Check for cuts in the wires and in particular exposed wires at the bulb holders;
- Only use the correct spare bulbs and ensure that a fuse bulb (normally painted white) is fitted;
- Do not use lights designed for indoor use outdoors.
- Always remove the plug from the mains before changing bulbs, and finally,
- Do not allow children to play with Christmas tree lights.
If you are in any doubt as to the safety of your lights, discard them and buy a new set.
New lights should carry the European CE mark and many new models now run on a very low 12 to 36 volts via a mains transformer. It is worth remembering that light sets which do not have a transformer will have 240 volts running through them, increasing the danger of an electric shock if they become faulty.
Christmas Decorations
Christmas decorations should be seen - but not played with! That is the message being sent out this Christmas to parents across Warwickshire as they begin to dress their trees and homes with baubles and tinsel.
Many Christmas decorations may resemble toys and be very child appealing, but Christmas decorations are not toys and are exempt from stringent toy safety requirements, making them potentially dangerous if misused.
Christmas decorations may contain small removable parts that could choke a young child or sharp points or edges and 'finger traps' which can be harmful.
Remember do not let children play with Christmas decorations. |