Master Electricians shed some light on Christmas safety
Andrew Bailey from Master Electricians Australia warned cutting costs on safety around Christmas lights placed the lives of home owners and their loved ones in grave danger.
“Many home owners spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year on new lights and other outdoor electrical equipment to get their homes into the festive spirit,” Mr Bailey said.
“We’re asking them to set aside at least 10 per cent of that investment for electrical safety measures. These should include electrical safety switches – preferably on every circuit in the home but at the very least on the circuits which carry the Christmas lights.
“Adding a safety switch to a switchboard costs less than many of the more elaborate lighting products that home owners can buy for their Christmas displays.
“People who can’t arrange a Master Electrician or licensed electrical contractor to install a safety switch should at least consider buying portable safety switches for their light displays.
“A safety switch will detect any imbalance power associated with electric shock and stop the flow of electricity in less than 40 milliseconds.
“Safety switches should not be confused with circuit breakers or surge protectors, which protect equipment not people. Safety switches can be distinguished by a test button on the front panel, and they should be tested regularly, when you receive your electricity bill for example.”
Mr Bailey urged home owners with extensive lighting displays to consider having a Master Electrician or licensed contractor install additional outdoor power points, rather than overloading existing circuits. He also urged people using power boards or extension leads to invest in water-proof containers, available from most hardware stores.
“Most importantly, do not overload circuits with piggy-backed power boards, don’t carry out do-it-yourself repairs to electrical equipment, and only use lighting equipment that is rated for outdoor use. If you have any suspicions about the safety of Christmas lights, dispose of them or have them checked by a qualified tradesman.
“Preventable electrical deaths are a tragedy at any time of the year, but particularly when they are associated with an otherwise festive time such as Christmas. Master Electricians Australia urges all Australians to be extremely cautious around electricity this Christmas time.”
