While twinkling Christmas lights bring joy and a festive spirit, they can also pose some unexpected risks if not handled carefully. Here are some common safety hazards of Christmas lights you may not have thought of.
Fire risks
Christmas lights can overheat or have frayed wires, leading to short circuits and potential fires. Older lights or poor-quality ones may not meet current safety standards, greatly increasing the risk.
Before hanging them up, check all lights for damaged wires, loose connections, or any broken bulbs before use.
If you’re choosing a new set of lights, go for LED, as they emit less heat and consume less energy. Avoid overloading power boards and ensure your lights are plugged into surge-protected outlets.
It might seem simple, but remember to turn off all lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
Choking hazards for pets and children
Strands of lights and small bulbs can be a choking hazard, especially for curious toddlers or pets who might try to chew on them.Make sure youkeep lights out of their reach.
Use cord clips or adhesive hooks to secure wires along walls and out of harm’s way. And always remember to supervise pets and children when they’re near decorations.
Cuts and scrapes from broken light bulbs
Broken light bulbs can scatter sharp glass shards, causing painful injuries if stepped on. If your set of lights has been around for years, definitely double-check all bulbs before hanging them up.
Handle lights with care to avoid breakage during setup. If a bulb breaks, clean up thoroughly using gloves and a vacuum. Use shatterproof lights or LED options, which are more durable and less prone to breakage.
Electrical risks
Faulty or poorly maintained lights can cause electric shocks during installation or when plugged in and operating.
Always make sure you unplug the lights before replacing bulbs or untangling them. Avoid using lights labelled ‘for indoor use’ outside, as they’re not designed to withstand wet conditions.
Make sure outdoor lights are labelled as ‘weatherproof’ and are connected to a residual current device designed to cut power within milliseconds if there’s a fault.
Tripping hazards
Long cords running across the floor or dangling wires can easily trip up household members, especially in busy areas.
Use extension cords that are a suitable length, being careful to avoid any unnecessary slack. Tape down cords or use cable organizers to keep them secure. Position lights and power sources away from areas with high foot traffic.
Respiratory issues and allergic reactions
This might seem like an obscure risk, but dust and mould can accumulate on lights and decorations that have been stored away for a year, which could potentially trigger allergies or asthma when the lights are brought out.
Wipe down all lights and decorations with a damp cloth before setting them up. Store items in sealed containers to minimise dust build-up for future use.
Christmas lights are a fun tradition, but staying mindful of these potential hazards can help ensure your festive season is memorable for the right reasons.
Do you hang Christmas lights at your place? Have they ever caused any safety incidents? Let us know in the comments section below.
Also read: Why do we have Christmas trees?
