Ausgrid Chief Operating Officer Trevor Armstrong said it’s important to take a few moments to inspect any electrical displays or lights. 

“If your Christmas lights have been packed away in storage for the past year, make sure you check the cords and bulbs thoroughly for any damage before they are plugged in,” he said.

“Look for things like frayed cords and broken bulbs and always turn the power off before replacing any bulbs.”

It’s important to ensure your lights display doesn’t create an electrical or fire hazard. 

Check you have a safety switch in your meter box and make sure your smoke detectors are working. 

“If you’re using extension cords make sure they are fully unrolled to keep them from overheating and don’t overload powerpoints or powerboards by piggy backing double adaptors,” Mr Armstrong said.

“When deciding where to put your tree up check where your powerpoints are first and ensure any extension cords, power boards and adaptors are out of reach of children. 

“Put your lights on the tree first and then the other decorations and make sure tinsel and other metallic ornaments aren’t touching the lights or any power boards or sockets.”

If you’re decorating the outside of your home be mindful of what is around you and stay well clear of the overhead service wires which connect your property to the electricity network. 

“For exterior displays always make sure you’re using lights designed for outdoor use and when attaching lights to your home only use tape cable ties or clamps, never use nails,” Mr Armstrong said.

“You should also switch off and unplug your Christmas lights when it rains or before leaving home or going to bed.”

More Christmas safety tips can be found on our website at ausgrid.com.au/christmassafety