Electrical Safety Tips For The Holidays

Damien Taylor • December 15, 2021

The holidays are fast approaching and you’re probably excited to take a week or so off to relax.

Whether you’re planning a cheeky getaway or want to spend Christmas with your loved ones, you’ll need to do a little planning beforehand to prevent any festive mishaps.

Unfortunately, many people overlook issues surrounding electrical safety when planning their much-needed breaks.

To remedy this problem, we’ve put together some helpful electrical safety tips for the holidays to keep you and your family safe.

1. Don’t Overload Electrical Outlets

Plugging several high-wattage appliances into a single outlet at once could lead to an electrical fire.

Make use of all your outlets (rather than just one), and resist plugging in your favourite Christmas lights if they present any risk of overloading an outlet.

2. Protect Your Home With Power Surge Protectors

A power surge could cause a serious electrical fire – very bad news if you’re planning to leave your home unattended while you go on vacation.

To prevent power surges, equip your property with a power surge protector.

3. Use Low-Voltage Lights Such As LEDs

If you’re planning to host a festive dinner or party, you’re probably keen to adorn your home with a few sparkly lights. As with all electrical appliances, such lights carry risks.

To prevent electrical fires and keep your guests safe, we recommend investing in low-voltage LED lights.

As well as lowering the risk of fire, LED lights are better for the environment and could lower your utility bills.

4. Arrange Your Lights Carefully

If you’re planning to adorn your home with many different lights, you should arrange them very carefully.

Here are a few tips:

• Don’t hang lights with nails, as this could expose the wires

• Don’t use double adaptors, as this could lead to an electrical overload

• Ensure any lights used in your garden are rated for use outdoors

• Ensure that extension cords don’t present a tripping hazard

5. Check Your Alarm Systems

Remember to check that your fire and smoke detectors work before the festive season commences.

From electrical fires to Christmas dinner mishaps, the festive season carries several fire risks that you can’t afford to ignore.

6. Protect Electrical Cords

You’re probably going to be using more electrical goods than usual during the holidays. As such, it is vital that you protect cords from damage, as exposed wires could cause an electrical fire.

When plugging in a device or appliance, remember to keep them away from heavy furniture and don’t force them through small gaps such as doors or windows.

You should also avoid placing wires under rugs.

7. Turn Off All Appliances If You’re Going Away

However long you plan to go away, you should remember to turn off and unplug all electrical items to prevent fires.

Electrical Issues? Give DTE A Call

At DTE Electrical & Data, we offer premium electrical services to clients around Dubbo and the Central West.

Whether you require domestic or commercial services this holiday season, we’re here to keep you, your family, or your customers safe from electrical hazards.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch today with any queries or for a free, no-obligation quote.

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