CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SHOULD ADD A GLOW TO CHRISTMAS NOT CAUSE A GLOW

Believe us when we say that Christmas lights can result in your homes being consumed by fires caused by Christmas lights and candles.   Every year around 350 people a year are injured by Christmas tree lights, according to RoSPA.

Not only are there injuries when people fall due to using inadequate furniture to put up lights rather than a proper stepladders but many people end up with burns from faulty lights or even their home catching fire.   Further there are the injuries that are caused by children swallowing the Christmas light bulbs and people getting electric shocks.

To avoid an injury this Christmas purchase lights which have a British Safety Standard mark e.g. BS Kitemark.

We know you want to make your home look gorgeous this Christmas but don't overload plugs only fit 1 plug per socket unless u have a bar adaptor lead and make sure that cables aren't anywhere that they could cause a tripping accident.   Ensure that this Christmas you keep your Christmas lights well clear of decorations and other flammable materials and yes  Christmas lights are pretty but always switch the lights off before you go to bed and when you leave the house

With so many people round the house at Christmas  we know it may be a little difficult but don't allow young children to play with your Christmas lights and definitely do not let the dog chew the lights or the wires..

Finally don’t  forget to test your lights and the wiring before you put them up, as they can deteriorate over the years and finally check whether your lights can be used internally or externally

When Christmas lights are supplied to you the manufacturers have a responsibility to make sure that they are safe and the heaviest burden of responsibility lies with the manufacturer of the goods, but retailers and wholesalers that distribute the products also have a legal responsibilities.

If Christmas lights cause damage to your home, or, the contents of your home, keep the lights if they are still in a fit state and ensure that you get them inspected to see if they were defective  

If you are injured by Christmas lights in someone else's home you may be able to claim under the Occupiers Liability Act, but there are certain things you will need to do.

1.      Take photographs of any injuries

2.      Try to obtain a statement from  anyone who witnessed the incident.

3.   Obtain copies of any medical notes made if you attended at your GPs or the hospital.

NEED HELP FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US AT
enquiries@affordablelawforyou.co.uk



The information herewith gives general guidance. It should not be regarded or relied upon as a complete or authoritative statement of the law or treated as a substitute for specific legal advice concerning individual situations