Have you ever watched the Griswalds Christmas movie? You know the one, with disaster after disaster? Don’t want to end up like poor Clarke and in trouble all the time? Then Bec Sparky from A Brighter View has just the advice you need to save you a Christmas light catastrophe.

Safe Christmas Lighting Tips

The Christmas season is fast approaching and this weekend is when a lot of families put up their Christmas lights. While they look absolutely spectacular there are a few safety issues and tips to consider beforehand.

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• If purchasing new lights, buy from known outlets such as a hardware store. Cheap imported lights may become faulty quickly and may not comply with Australian electrical standards.
• Lay out all of your lights and check them for damage and plug them in to ensure they work
• Have and electrician install additional weatherproof outlets to reduce the use of power boards
• If using power boards, ensure they are a reputable brand, have a safety switch and are in a weatherproof enclosure.
• Never “piggyback” double adaptors or power boards.
• Don’t overload power points or power boards.
• Ensure extension leads are out of the weather.
• Using LED rather that old halogen style saves money and they are safer
• Utilise timers to save power. This is also a great safety feature for when you’re not at home.
• Always use caution when climbing ladders. Having someone to hold or ‘foot’ the ladder can prevent the ladder slipping or falling.
I hope these simple tips have helped. I’d love to see some of your Christmas light designs posted up on The Builder’s Wife’s Facebook page this year.

That’s a great idea Bec, I’d love to see our readers pop photos of their creations on your Facebook page, or my own. If you are after more great tips on electrical safety, be sure to check out Bec’s, Website, Facebook and YouTube.

Bec will be back in the New Year to answer more of your electrical questions, would you like to leave one in the comments? Is there a potential Clarke Griswald in your house?

Nicole xxx