‘Tis the season to be cautious: Lighting Expert Warns Homeowners to Avoid These Six Lighting Hazards

By Matthew Currington, Technical Director, The Lighting Superstore

With Christmas just around the corner, decorations will soon go up throughout homes and gardens. But amidst the sparkle and glow, hidden hazards could turn your winter wonderland into a nightmare before Christmas.

Here are six Christmas lighting hazards to watch out for to ensure a safe and joyous festive season.

Overloading sockets

Fairy lights bring Christmas to life, transforming your tree, mantle and staircase into a festive display.

Just be careful not to overload sockets, especially when using multi-plug extension leads. This is particularly important if you’re using older lights, as they can draw more power and, combined with outdated home wiring, are at a higher risk of overheating.

Plan your setup to have one set per socket where possible and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LED lights.

Damaged or worn wiring

Christmas lights that have been stored and reused for years often emerge with worn cables, damaged insulation, or exposed wires, which increases the risk of shocks and short circuits.

It’s crucial to inspect lights for any damage before use and to responsibly recycle or dispose of damaged sets.

Similarly, for exterior lighting, use Christmas lights specifically rated for outdoor use in your garden, as they’re stronger and better insulated to handle cold and wet weather.

Dry winter leaves can act like tinder next to exposed electrical wiring, so always check labels and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, looking for terms like ‘waterproof’ or ‘water-resistant’.

Overheating decorations

Incandescent bulbs, especially when left on for extended periods, can easily overheat. This becomes a fire hazard if the lights are in contact with flammable Christmas decorations that could ignite under prolonged heat.

The same risk applies to lights strung through curtains or along staircase garlands with dried foliage.

If you’re unable to replace your old lights, make sure to turn them off when you leave the house or go to bed, and try to limit the time they’re on.

Unsafe mounting methods

Avoid using nails, staples, or metal hangers to secure fairy light cables, especially outdoors, as these can pierce or pinch through the insulation, risking a fire or an electric shock.  Instead, insulated hooks designed for purpose are a safer choice all around.

Remember, light strings should be kept away from heat sources like fireplaces or heaters to reduce fire hazards, and avoid running lights through doors or windows, as this can wear down the insulation and increase fire risks.

Missing or broken bulbs

Modern LED light strings will still work if one bulb breaks, but it’s important to replace broken or missing bulbs. Exposed wiring can let in moisture, dust, or physical damage, increasing risks like electric shocks or short circuits over time.

However, avoid DIY fixes and rely on replacements and tools provided with your light set; if those are missing, buy a new set.

Lights within reach of children or pets

Christmas lights can be very tempting for young children and pets, who might try to play with, pull on, or chew the cables. This can lead to strangulation or electric shock, so it’s best to keep all lights securely fastened and out of reach.

For greater peace of mind, ensure you have bought top-quality lights with durable cabling that won’t damage easily.

Sometimes, battery-powered lights can be a better option, provided you can adequately hide the batteries for aesthetic purposes!