Tips for a Safe and Festive Summer: Protecting Your Home and Loved Ones

As the festive season approaches, many of us are busy decorating our homes, exchanging gifts, and embarking on DIY projects. However, it’s important to prioritize safety, especially when it comes to electrical devices and decorations. To ensure a safe and enjoyable summer, WA’s electrical safety regulator, Building and Energy, has shared some top tips:

1. Check Your Festive Lights

Festive lights are a popular addition to homes during this time of year, but they can pose a risk if damaged or used incorrectly. Before using your lights, make sure to:

• Check that lights, cords, and plugs are undamaged and untangled.
• Ensure that they are working properly, especially if they have been in storage.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, including guidelines on indoor or outdoor use.
• Use lights with an ingress protection weatherproof rating for outdoor use.
• Switch off the lights before going to bed or leaving the house.

2. Be Cautious with Imported Electrical Equipment

When purchasing lights and other electrical equipment, be cautious about buying from overseas sources. Such products may not comply with Australian standards. Look for the “triangle and tick” symbol, which indicates that the appliance has been independently approved for use in Australia.

3. Insulation for Plug Pins

Ensure that your plug pins have an insulation layer covering at least half of the pin length. This safeguards against contact with live metal parts if the plug is not fully inserted into the socket outlet.

4. Leave Electrical Work to Professionals

If you’re planning any DIY projects this summer, it’s crucial to remember that electrical work should only be handled by licensed electrical contractors. Attempting your own electrical work is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Prioritize safety and seek expert help for any electrical tasks.

5. Stay Safe in Roof Spaces

Tragically, there have been instances of fatal electric shocks in roof spaces in recent years. If you must access the roof space of your home or any building, it’s vital to turn off the mains power at the main switchboard beforehand. This is a legal requirement to protect the safety of workers in roof spaces.

6. Handling Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in gifts and home improvement projects. To ensure fire safety, it’s important to:

• Use only the designated equipment supplied with a particular device. Avoid mixing and matching batteries and chargers, even if they physically fit together.
• Dispose of batteries showing signs of swelling, overheating, or damage safely.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and festive summer with peace of mind. Protect your home, loved ones, and yourself from potential electrical hazards. Have a wonderful and safe holiday season!