TRADING standards officials in Hartlepool have issued a safety warning to anyone planning to decorate the outside of their homes.

They say many people risk serious injury when climbing on to the roof to put up lights and other illuminated seasonal novelties.

Michael Welsh, principal trading standards officer at Hartlepool Borough Council said he had seen one person up a ladder recently at 8pm working with just the light of a street lamp.

He said: "It was an accident waiting to happen which could have spoilt the whole family's Christmas. A fall from roof-top height could kill or at the very least leave you in a hospital bed at a time when you should be enjoying yourself."

He issued the following advice; do not climb on to a roof without a proper roof ladder, ensure the ladder is long enough so you don't have to stretch and ensure you have enough time to compete the job in daylight.

He also urged householders to ensure lights are in good condition and there are no exposed wires. He asked them to use a circuit breaker in case a fault develops and ensure the lights are secure from high winds so they will not get tangled up.