The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) is urging everyone to check their Christmas lights now, and not to leave it to chance.

The MCCAA, in a statement said that each year their are more variations of Christmas lights, and is therefore reminding the public about some basic safety issues related to consumer products normally bought during the festive season.

According to MCCAA market surveillance plans, inspections in relation to these products have been under way for some time over the past weeks, and non-conforming products have already been found on the market.

“Very recently, a series of tests were conducted on various lighting chains that could be found on the Maltese market. Two products, as indicated in the attached photos, resulted to be unsafe as such products posed the risk of electric shock,” it said.

The Authority explained that due to poor construction, parts of these lighting chains are susceptible to breaking down and exposing parts that carry electrical current. “Such parts, if touched, for instance accidentally by a child, could lead to electric shock and even death.”

The MCCAA went on to warn economic operators that the above products must be immediately removed from the market and that action will be taken against operators who opt to (illegally) continue to offer the said products.

The Authority also advised consumers not to use these products and to return them to their point of sale.

“When buying such electrical decorations, consumers should always look for the CE marking, which is a key indicator of a product’s compliance to all applicable EU legislation,” the Authority said.

“Moreover, one should see that the product has the appropriate voltage rating for our electrical system (230V, 50Hz); that the relevant warnings in Maltese or English accompany the product; and that the product has a proper 3-pin termination for direct connection to our electrical system.”

Should consumers have any concerns regarding the safety of the above-mentioned products or any other consumer products, they are urged to contact the Technical Regulations Division within the MCCAA on telephone number 2395 2000 or email msd.mccaa@mccaa.org.mt

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