Increase in Electrical Accidents During Festive Season: Public Utilities Commission Warns

28-Dec-2025

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The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka has warned that electrical accidents tend to increase during the Christmas and New Year festive season and has urged the public to exercise extra caution.

In a statement, the Commission noted that every year a significant number of injuries and fatalities are reported due to unsafe use of electricity in homes. Faulty or substandard decorative lights and electrical appliances have been identified as the main causes.

The Commission emphasized that even homes considered safe can become dangerous if electrical safety regulations are not followed. Consumers are advised to purchase only decorative lights fitted with Sri Lanka Standards Institution–certified 13A Type-G square-pin plugs.

Before use, visible wires, loose connections, damaged insulation, or signs of overheating should be carefully checked. Plugs, extension cords, and control units should be kept indoors in dry locations and protected from moisture. Outdoor decorative lights must be certified for external use and be weather-resistant.

The public has also been advised not to place decorative lights near curtains, paper decorations, or other flammable materials, and not to connect multiple sets of lights together unless approved by the manufacturer. Lights should not be installed or removed while connected to electricity, and damaged lights should be safely disposed of rather than repaired.

The Commission stressed that electric shocks caused by faulty decorative lights can be fatal and urged the public to follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and joyful Christmas and New Year.