CPSC Warns Consumers That Holiday Lights Can Be Deadly

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is warning consumers that they should inspect holiday lights for dangerous flaws that could lead to fires.

"A beautiful tree trimmed with lights is a wonderful part of holiday celebrations," said CPSC Chairman Ann Brown. "But if the lights on your tree are damaged or dangerous, you risk more than losing your home in a housefire. You could lose your life."

Each year, an average of 1,300 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms for injuries related to holiday lights. In addition, holiday lights cause approximately 510 fires annually, resulting in an average $16.6 million in property loss and damage each year.

Many lights currently sold at swap-meets, flea markets, and bargain centers may not have current safety features that protect against fire and electrical shock.

CPSC is recommending the following suggestions for consumers to make this holiday season safe and happy.

When shopping for lights:

-Look for a label stating that the lights were tested by a recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or ETL.

-Check light plugs for fuses that guard against overload, which could cause a fire.

-Check each string of lights, old and new, for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, loose connections, or loose or missing bulbs. If a set is damaged, do not buy or use it.

At home:

-Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single extension cord. Never use electric lights on a metallic tree.

-When you leave the house or go to bed, turn off all lights on trees. The lights could short out and start a fire.

-Fasten outdoor lights securely to trees, house walls, or other firm supports to protect the lights from wind damage. Use only insulated staples to hold strings in place, not nails or tacks. Or, run strings of lights through hooks (available at hardware stores).

Each year, CPSC inspects retailers and distributors to identify and recall potentially hazardous lights. To hear recall information or to report dangerous products, including decorations and lights, consumers should call CPSC's toll-free Hotline at (800) 638-2772.