Every year at this time, the Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards (SLBS) takes the opportunity to remind St. Lucians of the need to put safety first during the festive season.  The SLBS is calling for persons to be especially vigilant when purchasing Christmas lights.  Consumers must be mindful of the following when making purchases and installing of lighting products especially, Christmas tree lights and other decorative lightings.
 
• Look for safety marks – for example UL, BS Kitemark.
• Buy from a reputable store. If you have old lights, consider buying new ones which will meet much higher safety standards.
• Avoid buying second-hand unless you have them checked professionally first.
• New lights are transformed down to 24 volts for added safety, or they may be double  insulated.
• NEVER insert or remove bulbs when switched on.
• Inspect cables and bulbs for damage.
• Do not use lights which are damaged, dispose of them safely.
• Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Use an RCD - Residual Current Device, for added protection against shock.
• Do not run the cable under carpets or where it can be damaged.
• Keep lights clear of decorations and other flammable materials.
• Avoid cables becoming a tripping hazard.
• Use a stable support when hanging the lights.
• Do not leave the lights on when the room is empty. Remember to switch them off when you go to bed and when you go out of the house.
• Do not allow children to play with the lights.
• If bulbs blow, replace them. Turn off and unplug the lights first.
• Check for overloaded plugs - you should fit one plug per socket unless you use a bar adapter on a lead.  But do not plug appliances into the adapter that collectively use more than 13 amps of current.
• Do not use the lights outdoors unless specially made for such use.
• Do not extend cables on outdoor lights.
• Never use extension leads or plugs and sockets outdoors unless specifically designed for   outdoor use.  
The SLBS is also reminding importers and retailers to follow strictly the requirements of the Compulsory Standard, SLNS 51:2002 – Christmas Tree and Other Decorative Lighting Outfits.
The SLBS has stepped up its surveillance programme and warns that any lights found during market surveillance not to meet the requirements of the standards will be confiscated. 
The issue of Christmas lights is important as poor quality lights can potentially endanger life and result in damage and or loss of property.
The Saint Lucia Bureau of Standards wishes all St. Lucians a safe and joyful festive season.