In partnership with celebrity party planner Liz Brewer, the ESC has developed the following list of top tips to create an outdoor celebration that will be both fun and safe.

1. Make it safe: Ensure every item of electrical equipment at the party is protected by an RCD. This is especially important outdoors where they may be more exposed to weather or water.
2. Make it memorable: Decide what you want your guests to remember your party for, and then focus on that. This could be a theme or good experience that stays with them after the event.
3. ‘Dream’ the party: Think through every detail in your mind (such as how will people get there, will you have enough glasses etc) to ensure nothing can go wrong on the day.
4. Smarten up the garden: Mow the lawn and trim the hedge but always ensure you use an RCD with your electrical equipment.
5. Make food simple: You want food that is easy to make, with items that can be prepared in advance. Presentation matters!
6. Check leads and plugs for damage: When digging out old electrical equipment such as fairy lights or taking stereos or speakers into the garden, check for any faults or damage. If in doubt, don’t use. Also ensure all equipment is protected from water and bad weather and is suitable for outdoor use.
7. Tidy all electrical leads and cables away: Make sure these are tidied to avoid trip hazards and accidents.
8. Think rain and cold weather: Accept the UK weather is unpredictable and avoid unhappy guests by telling people to bring umbrellas in case of wet weather and shawls or jackets for when it gets cold.
9. Remove fragile items: Disposable glasses not only minimise washing up but also reduce the chance of broken glass causing an accident. And make sure any ornaments are out of harm’s way.
10. Explore our website for additional information on all aspects of electrical safety.

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