Christmas lights spark MFB warning

Victorian streets are electric with the buzz of Christmas lights decorating houses but the MFB has warned electrical malfunctions could dampen your Christmas spirit.

MFB acting chief officer Paul Stacchino says electrical faults are one of the top five causes of house fires each year so it's important to make sure all cords are untangled.

He also warned Victorians not to overload powerboards.

What you can do to ensure your Christmas lights don't turn into a Christmas disaster:

* Check lights are in working order before putting them up

* Never use more than three standard-size set of lights per powerboard

* Make sure electric cords are not covered by a rug or mat

* Use battery-operated LED lights instead - traditional Christmas lights can overheat when left on for extended periods of time.

Source: MFB