After being boxed away for a year, Christmas lights can easily become electrically unsafe. Here’s how you can avoid common risks:

• Check your lights for damage and look for loose wires
• Never use lights that are broken or faulty
• Only use indoor lights inside and outdoor lights outside
• Avoid overloading your sockets and extension leads
• Switch off and unplug your lights before you go to bed or go out
• Keep lights away from flammable decorations and materials that can burn easily
• A real tree can catch fire a lot quicker than a fire-retardant artificial tree. If you have a live tree, make sure that you keep it well-watered

Here’s how to keep your home safe from power surges and electrical fires when you’re not home:

• Unplug any appliances or devices that won’t be in use while you’re gone. This will save you money on your power and also reduce the risk of fire and electrical faults when your house is empty.
• Test your smoke alarms and replace batteries or detectors if required.

If you’re entertaining outdoors during the summer, you might need additional power sources such as outlets and extension cords.

• Indoor extension cords cannot be used outdoors. Always use extension cords designed for outdoor use. These are more durable to withstand exposure to sunlight and moisture.
• Cover outdoor outlets with weatherproof covers.
• Never run extension cords through areas with heavy foot traffic, where they could be tripped over. You can use cord covers or rubber mats to protect cords from being crushed or damaged.

• Fly kites in open areas away from power lines and if something gets caught in power lines, please contact us.
• Make sure drones are only flown in clear spaces away from power lines, power poles and substations.
• Before boating, know the height of your masts and aerials above land when towing and above water when sailing. Always keep an eye out for overhead power lines.
• Don’t light bonfires near power lines – always have water handy and check the fire danger index

Electrical safety around water is crucial, especially with pools or spas at home.

• Keep electrical devices and outlets at least 3 metres away from the pool or spa.
• Never use extension cords near a pool area—opt for battery-operated devices instead.
• Make sure all pool equipment, like pumps, is installed by a licensed professional and regularly inspected.
• Ensure outdoor outlets near the pool are RCD-protected, which cuts power if there’s any contact with water.

Summer heat affects appliances and electrical equipment differently, so it’s important to monitor usage.

• Don’t cover or place items on top of appliances like fridges and microwaves, as it may cause them to overheat.
• Turn off unused devices to prevent excess heat buildup, which could lead to fire.
• Ensure ventilation around appliances like TVs, computers, and gaming consoles to avoid overheating.

Boating, fishing, and water activities are a kiwi summer essential.

• Before boating, know the height of your masts and aerials above land when towing and above water when sailing. Always keep an eye out for overhead power lines.
• When using electrical devices on boats, make sure they’re designed for marine use and have appropriate waterproofing.
• Keep electrical connections away from water, and never handle electrical equipment with wet hands.
• Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (RCDs) outlets. RCDs automatically cut power when a connected device comes in contact with water.

Expecting a house full of friends and family for the holidays? Extra guests usually mean a spike in electricity usage – please ensure everyone is using power responsibly.

• Avoid running additional multi-plugs and extension cords to try and accommodate everyone, and – if small children are coming to stay – plug any unused outlets with safety covers.
• Do not connect one extension cord to another extension cord.
• Be sure the amperage rate of the extension cord is equal to or higher than the product you’re plugging in.

• Only use extension cords that are suitable for outdoor use.
• Never use outdoor gas appliances in enclosed spaces like tents and caravans, especially not anywhere near where people sleep.
• Keep appliances in good condition and check your appliances regularly. You can ask a licensed gas fitter to check it is in good working order.
• If you’re setting up lighting around camp, check for damaged or frayed cords and cables.
• Keep electrical equipment away from water.
• Never throw empty canisters in the fire.
• Ensure all gas connections are done up tightly.

• Take extra precautions and take your time driving over the summer when more people are travelling, often on unfamiliar roads.
• If you hit a power pole or pillar, call 111 and stay in the vehicle until help arrives.
• If you must get out of the vehicle for your safety, jump with both feet together as far away as possible. Continue to jump or shuffle, keeping your feet together, until you are at least 10m from the vehicle. DO NOT touch the vehicle.
• The line may be live and the vehicle may become electrically live too. Any person attempting to touch or leave the vehicle could be electrocuted.
• If you see a damaged power pole, lines down or anything else that doesn’t look right, call us so we can check it out.
• Check where EV stations are before you leave so you don’t get stranded.

The BBQ is a Kiwi summer staple, but it can come with risks.

• Keep your BBQ at least 3 metres from your home, fences, tents, and anything that can catch fire.
• Check all electrical connections if you’re using an electric BBQ, and avoid using it near water.
• Keep appliances in good condition and check your appliances regularly. You can ask a licensed gas fitter to check it is in good working order.
• Keep an eye on children and pets, ensuring they stay at a safe distance.
• Always have a fire extinguisher on hand and know how to use it.
• Ensure all gas connections are done up tightly.
• Make sure the grill is completely off and cool before cleaning or covering it.

As we spend more time outdoors, this can include devices like portable speakers and phones. It’s important they’re charged safely.

• Don’t charge your phone in your bed.
• Charge devices indoors or in a shaded, ventilated space, away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid using or charging devices near water, like pools or on boats, as it increases the risk of electric shock.
• Use chargers that are recommended by the manufacturer to prevent overheating.
• Never leave devices on charge unattended overnight, especially if they’re covered.