Safety Tips for Outdoor Christmas Lights

16 November 2006

MEDIA RELEASE

Safety Tips for Outdoor Christmas Lights

As December 1, the traditional day for putting up Christmas lights, fast approaches, The Warehouse encourages all New Zealanders to use these simple safety tips:

1. Safety Low Voltage Transformers must be kept under cover - do not expose 240 V current to the weather.

2. Remove set from packaging before connecting to power supply.

3. Do not allow children to play with or handle light sets.

4. Before arranging the set in the required location uncoil the cable completely and connect to power supply to ascertain that all bulbs are operating.

5. To avoid damage to the set replace failed bulbs immediately with bulbs of the same voltage and wattage.

6. Ensure that the set is arranged so that the bulbs are not in contact with combustible materials or materials likely to distort or melt.

7. Ensure that all of the cable is completely uncoiled whilst set is in use. Failure to do so may cause over-heating and subsequent malfunction.

8. Avoid damage to wire insulation (cable) as this could cause a short-circuit and damage the Transformer. Take care that the cable does not get trapped or damaged if it passes through a door or window, this is particularly important if the door or window is metal.

9. Do not attempt to open of fix adaptor. Have all repairs and maintenance carried out by a qualified electrician.

The Warehouse is searching for the best and brightest home as part of its annual ‘Light Up Your Home’ Christmas competition. Entrants will be into win $10,000 to spend at The Warehouse and entries close on Friday 8 December.

Entrants are required to purchase at least one type of Christmas lights from The Warehouse to enter. Along with the entry form, contestants send photos of their home decorated for the festive season and will be judged on their creative flair and effort.

ENDS

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