ACTPLA reminds the community to take care when installing and using outdoor lights and other decorative lighting.

Use only lights that are approved for use in Australia by product safety regulatory authorities. Unapproved lights have the potential to start fires and cause electric shocks.

ACTPLA warns against buying cheap decorative lighting products, second hand lights at markets and bargain stores, or on-line lights that are not approved in Australia.

Installing lights

Always follow manufacturer's instructions regarding assembly, installation and globe replacement.

All power boards, transformers and lighting must be protected from weather by installing the transformer and power connection indoors unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Lights designed for outdoor use, and particularly 240 volt decorative lighting, should be  installed according to the manufacturer's installation instructions regarding the location of the transformer and whether lighting strings, ropes or individual lampholders for globes are resistant to moisture. 

You can buy weather proof boxes for the protection of transformers and power boards with a Degree of Protection (IP) rating preferably higher or equal to IP65. IP marks are displayed on electrical enclosures. Check all  installation and maintenance information supplied by the manufacturer. Keep your purchase receipts if a warranty claim is deemed necessary. 

• After any storm, disconnect the power and check decorative lighting installations for damage.
• Ensure  exposed  lights are kept away from flammable material.
• Never use damaged equipment or lights.  
• Do not overload power boards, power points, extension cords or double adapters.  
• Never expose power boards or double adaptors to the weather. 
• Never cascade power boards by plugging in power board to another power board.
• Never run connecting leads through door ways or windows where they are likely to be damaged or cut.
• If you require extra power points always contact a licensed electrician to install them.
• Turn off lights if they are to be unattended.
  

If using the same lights year after year, make sure they are in good condition and have no exposed (uninsulated) wiring before installing. Do not cover or modify lights.  Make sure they are packed away carefully after use. 

Substandard lights

Indicators of substandard decorative lights include:

• Decorative lighting product displays operating voltages less than 230 volts.
• Plugs are incompatible with Australian power points.
• Dangerously thin electrical insulation on flexible leads.
• Incorrectly rated globes that may overheat and cause surrounding material to catch fire.
• Wiring that pulls out of lamp holders.