Ergon Energy reminds customers to prioritise electrical safety when installing Christmas lights

Queensland electricity distributor Ergon Energy is reminding customers about the importance of electrical safety when installing Christmas lights this festive season.

Ergon Area Manager Matt Hilder said customers should treat Christmas decorations like any other powered equipment in the home, adding that these decorations are safe if they're used properly.

Check Your Equipment Before You Start

"Before installing Christmas lights, check that wires, fittings and lights are in good working order and if they appear to be faulty or you have concerns, either have them checked and repaired by a qualified technician or simply throw them out," he said.

Faulty equipment poses a genuine risk to households, so inspecting cords, plugs and connectors each year remains a critical step. Ergon Energy recommends fitting an approved safety switch to reduce risk further, as this equipment can cut power quickly if a fault occurs.

Don't Overload Power Points

"Make sure you only use lights marked for outdoor use outside the home and don't overload power points when running multiple devices," Mr Hilder said.

Running too much equipment from a single outlet strains circuits and increases fire risk. Spreading festive equipment across multiple power points, rather than daisy-chaining extension cords, keeps load manageable and reduces strain on wiring throughout the home.

Meet Australian Safety Standards

Mr Hilder also reminded customers to ensure all Christmas lights meet Australian safety standards. Equipment purchased from reputable retailers typically carries compliance markings, though older strings passed down through family collections should be checked before use.

For businesses and property managers coordinating seasonal displays, maintaining a documented approach to electrical safety policy obligations can support consistent equipment checks year-round, not just during the holidays.

Related Reading

• Essential Energy has also issued similar guidance — read our coverage of Essential Energy urges safety with Christmas lights.
• Learn more about how Energex and Ergon encourage safe installation of Christmas lights to avoid electrical dangers.
• Workplaces and households alike can benefit from an Electrical Safety Checklist to verify equipment before use.

Read more here.