Safe and Sparkling – Christmas Light Safety for Landlords and Tenants
With the festive season fast approaching, Christmas lights and decorations will soon be lighting up homes and properties all over the UK, bringing joy and warmth to the cold winter days. However, in the midst of all this festive cheer, it's vital to ensure that these beautiful decorations do not compromise the safety of the property and its inhabitants. As a professional contractor and the mind behind the Help me Fix, The Video Triage Service and Hub, Ettan Bazil is here to share this list of essential tips for safely installing and maintaining Christmas lights:
Electrical Safety First:
Always use lights that conform to the British Safety Standard. Look for the BS Kitemark to be sure. Advise tenants to check their lights for damage and wear each year before putting them up. Frayed wires, loose connections, and broken bulbs can pose serious hazards.
Outdoor Lighting:
If lights are being used outdoors, ensure they are specifically designed for external use. Secure all outdoor lights firmly to withstand winter weather, and make sure outdoor sockets are weatherproof.
Avoid Overloading Sockets:
Remind tenants not to overload power sockets with multiple light strings or decorations. This can be a fire hazard. Suggest using a good quality power strip with surge protection for additional safety.
Safe Installation Practices:
Encourage tenants to use insulated hooks rather than nails or screws when hanging lights, to prevent damaging the wiring. Ladders should be used safely when installing lights at height – always have someone steady the base.
Reducing Fire Risk:
Recommend the use of timers for Christmas lights. This not only saves energy but also minimises the risk of a fire by ensuring lights aren't left on for extended periods, especially overnight.
LED Lights Over Traditional Bulbs:
Suggest the use of LED lights, which are not only more energy-efficient but also safer as they generate less heat than traditional bulbs.
Smoke Alarms Check:
A reminder for landlords and tenants to test their smoke alarms! This simple check is crucial, especially with the increased fire load from decorations.
Child and Pet Safety:
Advise keeping wires and lights out of reach of children and pets to prevent any accidents or potential choking hazards.
Responsible Disposal and Storage:
After the holiday season, ensure lights are carefully removed and stored properly to prevent damage. Damaged lights should be disposed of safely.
Stay Connected with Hub:
Remind your tenants to use Hub for any maintenance or electrical concerns during the festive period. Whether it's finding a certified electrician for a quick check-up or connecting with a Hub Partner Contractor for more significant issues, Hub is there to ensure a safe and joyful festive season.
So, while Christmas lights bring a much-needed sparkle to the winter season, their safe installation and usage are paramount. By following these tips, landlords and tenants can enjoy a wonderfully festive and safe holiday season!
