Staying safe this festive season: a guide to Christmas light safety

Recently, 33 product lines were recalled across Europe due to risks of electric shock.

While these specific products haven’t been identified in Queensland, it’s a good reminder for consumers to be cautious when buying online, especially from overseas. Products sold abroad may not meet Australian safety standards, posing significant risks to your loved ones, and your home.

The recalled Christmas lights operated at 240V, and had various safety issues, such as:

• no cord securement (the cables could be pulled out)
• inadequate insulation of cables
• poor water protection despite being labelled for outdoor use
• fragile enclosures that could break apart.

These defects could result in exposed live parts and electric shock.

Always look for the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM)

If you're buying electrical equipment and appliances make sure they have the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM). The RCM means the product has been tested, is compliant and meets Australian Standards.

Visit eess.gov.au to see if your appliances and equipment are compliant.

Essential Christmas light safety tips

Before you start decorating, there are some important safety tips to be aware of, to ensure your Christmas doesn't end in disaster.

• Buy Australian-compliant Christmas lights (non-compliant lights are often sold on the internet from overseas).
• Check old Christmas lights for damage before re-using them.
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Don't alter or modify lights.
• Ensure all lights, extension leads, and power boards are suitable for the intended use (e.g external or internal).
• Test your safety switch and smoke detector to make sure they are working.
• Keep Christmas lights out of reach of children.
• If you have a living Christmas tree, switch off and unplug lights when watering the tree.
• Always turn off decorative lighting before going to bed or leaving your house.

Further information

More advice on Christmas light safety in the home can be found at the Electrical Safety Office website.