Are your previous Christmas lights a fireplace hazard? Lighting knowledgeable on his six important security checks

When you put Christmas lights up inside and outside your property, health and safety considerations may not be at the forefront of your mind. 

But with Christmas lights used year after year, they can get damaged and worn out. Older models can also use a lot of power, leaving them at risk of getting too hot. 

Add to that the risks that come with brightly coloured lights being tempting to children and pets, and there are plenty of potential pitfalls. 

Here are six festive lighting hazards to watch out for, to ensure you avoid a trip to A&E and enjoy a safe Christmas. 

1. Don’t overload sockets

When you’re setting up Christmas lights, be careful to avoid overloading sockets, particularly if you are using multi-plug extension leads. 

‘This is particularly important if you’re using older lights, as they can draw more power and, combined with outdated home wiring, are at a higher risk of overheating’, Matthew Currington, technical director at The Lighting Superstore, told This is Money.

Don’t ‘daisy-chain’ extension leads or adapters. This involves plugging one extension into another in order to reach further or plug more appliances in. 

It is a good idea to plan your lighting arrangement so there’s only one set per socket where possible. If you haven’t already got them, replacing bulb lights with LED ones might also be a good idea, as they can be more energy efficient. 

2. Watch out for damaged or worn wiring 

Christmas lights which have been stored and reused for years can begin to wear out. 

Worn cables, damaged insulation or exposed wires can all crop up, increasing the risk of shocks and short circuits. 

Make sure you inspect lights for any damage before use and recycle or dispose of damaged sets. 

Currington said: ‘For exterior lighting, use Christmas lights specifically rated for outdoor use in your garden, as they’re stronger and better insulated to handle cold and wet weather. 

‘Dry winter leaves can act like tinder next to exposed electrical wiring, so always check labels and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, looking for terms like “waterproof” or “water-resistant”.’

3. Look out for overheating lights 

Older string lights with bulbs, can easily overheat, especially if they are left on for extended periods or overnight. 

‘When placed near flammable decorations, such as dried natural foliage, synthetic tinsel, or felt ornaments, they pose a fire risk,’ Currington said. 

‘The same risk applies to lights strung through curtains or along staircase garlands with dried foliage.’

If you are unable to replace your old lights, make sure to turn them off when you leave the house or go to bed. 

‘While it’s tempting to leave them on for extra Christmas cheer, this simple step can prevent serious accidents and ensure your festive season remains safe,’ Currington said.  

 4. Use safe mounting methods 

Avoid using nails, staples, or metal hangers to secure fairy light cables, especially outdoors, as these can pierce or pinch through insulation, risking a fire or an electric shock. 

Insulated hooks are a safer choice, according to Currington.  

He said: ‘Remember, light strings should be kept away from heat sources like fireplaces or heaters to reduce fire hazards, and avoid running lights through doors or windows, as this can wear down the insulation and increase fire risks.’ 

5. Watch out for missing or broken bulbs 

Modern LED light strings will still work if one bulb breaks, but it is important to replace broken or missing bulbs. 

Exposed wiring can let in moisture, dust, or physical damage, increasing risks like electric shocks or short circuits over time.

However, avoid DIY fixes and rely on replacements and tools provided with your light set. 

If those are missing, Currington recommends buying a new set. 

6.Take care around children and pets 

Anything to do with electrics can be hazardous, so be particularly careful if your Christmas lights are likely to be near children or pets. 

Make sure any electrical appliance has a British or European safety mark when you purchase it. Not all lights being sold online or elsewhere meet British safety regulations. 

Currington told This is Money: ‘Christmas lights can be very tempting for young children and pets, who might try to play with, pull on, or chew the cables. 

‘This can lead to strangulation or electric shock, so it’s best to keep all lights securely fastened and out of reach.

‘For greater peace of mind, ensure you have bought top-quality lights with durable cabling that won’t damage easily.

‘Sometimes, battery-powered lights can be a better option, provided you can adequately hide the batteries for aesthetic purposes.’