Public Safety
To report any electricity hazards or dangers to public safety call Nelson Electricity on 03 546 9256
Christmas Tree Lights
Nelson Electricity is reminding consumers to make sure they buy and safely use Christmas lights. Avoid lights with plugs that are not designed for use in New Zealand - in fact, this should be the case when buying any electrical goods.
Here are some safety tips for buying and using Christmas lights.
Don't buy or use Christmas lights (or other electronic goods) that:
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Do not have the normal plug you would use at home. |
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Are supplied with a travel adaptor to fit the socket outlet. |
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Have a cord that extends up (rather than down) from the plug or a plug with no covering insulation extending half way up the two plug pins. |
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Have been specifically prohibited in NZ. |
When using lights:
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Check all lights - both old and new - for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. If you are unsure about their safety, have them checked by a licensed electrical worker. |
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Replace bulbs with ones of the same voltage and wattage. The wrong bulbs could cause overheating and start a fire. Always switch off and unplug light strings before replacing bulbs. |
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Turn off all Christmas lights when you go to bed or leave the house. If the lights develop a fault, they could start a fire. |
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A tingling sensation is usually a warning of danger. If you get a tingle from your lights or something touching them ie; tree decorations (inside), the house downpipe (outside), turn the lights off immediately and get them checked by a licensed electrical worker. |
Using Christmas lights outside:
If you are using Christmas lights outside follow the above advice and also:
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Check labels to make sure they are suitable for outside use and read all instructions before installing your lights. |
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Clean the outside of your house before installing the lights. Spider webs, leaves and other debris are potential fire hazard. |
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Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls or other firm supports to protect lights from wind damage. |
Some Christmas lights are not suitable for repeated use and should be safely disposed of when no longer required.
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Power supply and your responsibilities
The property owner is responsible for the power lines up to the point of
supply. Generally this is the point on the boundary of a property where
the electricity supply enters. But in some areas, especially rural
areas, this point of entry might not be clear.
If you are not sure which portion of the power lines is your
responsibility then it is recommended you Nelson Electricity to
discuss. NEL may also be able to assist you in determining the
condition of your power line.
Checking power lines and poles
Property owners should carry out periodic checks to ensure that the lines
and the poles supporting the lines, are in good order. This includes
checking that the lines are not in contact with trees or tree
branches. If the power line is an underground cable a record should
be kept of the location.
Keeping your power lines in a safe condition will help ensure you, your
family and friends avoid a serious accident or death.
For further information on public safety feel free to visit - www.energysafety.govt.nz