Consumers are being urgently warned about dangerous Christmas lights that have caused an electric shock injury and are believed to have been sold recently in WA.
In a joint alert from Building and Energy and Consumer Protection, purchasers of LED String Fairy Lights Net Mesh are advised not to use this unsafe product as it poses an electrical shock and fire hazard in the home.
A consumer has reported receiving an electrical shock from this product and had to be treated in hospital.
WA’s Director of Energy Safety Saj Abdoolakhan said an investigation of the fairy lights identified that the product is unsafe and does not comply with Australian electrical safety standards.
“The plug top pins are not insulated and the thin cable has notches in it that compromise the insulating properties of the wire, so it poses a serious risk of electric shock to people handling the lights and could also spark a fire in or around the home,” Mr Abdoolakhan said.
“Also of concern is that the compartment that houses the 240 volt wiring connections is not properly secured and can easily be opened, especially by children, exposing live parts.
“Anyone who purchased these fairy lights should discontinue use and unplug them immediately. They can approach the seller for a refund.
“We have located two suppliers and are in the process of determining how many of these units were sold. In the meantime, consumers need to be aware and take swift action if required.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Gary Newcombe said the lights involved in the electric shock incident were purchased via Facebook Marketplace and the product is also available online.
“Imported electrical products being sold via social media may not comply with Australian standards so it is very risky to purchase from unreliable sources,” Mr Newcombe said.
“While our investigations are continuing, we want consumers who bought this product to report it to us after unplugging it.”
Consumers who have bought this product should contact Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54 or consumer@dmirs.wa.gov.au.
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Media contact: Alan Hynd – (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 792 / cpmedia@dmirs.wa.gov.au
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