The Office of Industrial Relations is urging caution around using old electric lights and buying electrical gifts online.
In a statement, the Office said all electrical products should meet Australian Standards and be the product from reputable suppliers.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Grace Grace said that when it came to lights and other electrical items there were a few simple things that should be done to ensure a safe and memorable Christmas.
“Check that household electrical goods have a Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM),” Ms Grace said.
“This means it meets Australian Standards,” she said.
“When it comes to lights, make sure you’re getting the right ones suited to how you’re using them.”
She said that weatherproof solar-powered LED lights were the best for outside, but if the household had extra low voltage lights (usually between five-to-50V) supplied from a transformer, the householder should make sure they keep the transformer and 240V plug indoors or protected from the weather.
She said second-hand or damaged goods could cause serious injuries, fires and sadly even result in fatalities “so make sure you check any old appliances or lights before you plug them in”.
“There are obvious things to look for, like broken casings, cracked or discoloured plastic covers, frayed cords, and damaged plugs and extension leads, but there can also be internal damage or faults, so make sure you test your home’s safety switches and smoke alarms to ensure they are working correctly,” Ms Grace said.
She said homeowners might be tempted to have a go at installing extra power points to plug all the lights into, but warned that DIY electrical work in Queensland was illegal and could be deadly.
“Never attempt to do your own electrical work,” the Minister said, “there’s a good chance you will injure yourself or your family or start a fire.”
“Not only is it breaking the law, but you could also jeopardise your insurance,” Ms Grace said.
“This one really is quite simple — always use a licensed electrician,” she said.
More information and safety hints on Christmas lights can be accessed at this PS News link.
