Battery World’s Safety Tips for a Brighter, Safer Festive Season
Whether you’re adding a gentle sparkle to the family Christmas tree or transforming the whole front yard into a show-stopping holiday spectacle, it’s important to set up your lights safely. Follow these tips to keep your brilliant battery-powered displays merry - and mishap-free.
Battery-Powered vs Electric
Whenever possible, choose battery-powered lights. They’re compact, resilient, and free from the hassle of long cords. They’re also more energy efficient and can be placed almost anywhere in your home. Plus, their lower voltage makes them a much safer option for festive decorating.
Smart Storage Habits
Before you start decorating, inspect all cables for cracks, exposed wires, or frayed ends. If your batteries have been sitting in storage since last year, replace them with fresh ones.
Once the season wraps up, store your lights in a sealed container with cables neatly arranged to prevent deterioration, damage, or unwelcome critters nibbling at them. Remove the batteries before long-term storage and keep them safely in a battery case or box.
Choosing the Right Lights
Remember: indoor and outdoor Christmas lights are designed differently - never use indoor lights outside.
For inside your home, LED battery-powered lights are your safest and most energy-efficient option. They emit less heat while still creating a beautiful festive glow. Battery-powered candles are another great way to add ambiance without the risk of open flames.
When shopping for outdoor lights, look for options built to withstand the weather, especially those with durable, waterproof battery packs.
Setting Up Safely
- Secure any unused cord lengths by taping them down.
- Keep your lights away from flammable materials like gas bottles.
- Avoid running cables under rugs, mats, or through tight spaces where they can overheat.
- Always fully uncoil your lights before use.
- Never use nails, screws, or tacks that could pierce the cord.
Fire Safety Measures
In the unlikely event something goes wrong, ensure your home is protected with working fire alarms and a clear evacuation plan. Safety is the best gift you can give your family.
Don’t Forget to Turn Them Off
Battery-powered lights last a long time, but they don’t need to shine around the clock. Switching them off when not in use helps preserve battery life and keeps everything safe.
Finally, to make sure all your holiday preparations go off without a hitch, check that your carving knife’s batteries are charged, your garden tools are ready for outdoor hosting, and even Nana’s hearing aid batteries are fresh - so the Christmas cheer can be heard and felt by everyone.