LightAware Press Release on Christmas Lighting

Christmas lights are making some people ill

LED Christmas lights make the run up to Christmas a difficult time for light-sensitive people.

Most Christmas lighting now uses LED technology, which is brighter and harsher than traditional Christmas lighting. Some people cannot tolerate this lighting and develop migraines, headaches and eye pain. Conditions like lupus can be exacerbated by the exposure..

LightAware has been contacted by many people affected by LED Christmas lights who told of the devastating effect this lighting has on their lives. For sufferers, access to the outdoors is restricted by LED Christmas lighting displays. Flashing lighting and blue lighting are particularly problematic leading to social exclusion at a time when they should be celebrating Christmas.

LightAware ask that people be considerate of light-sensitive people. For example, they should:

• Listen to neighbours if they have sensitivities to particular forms of LED lighting. Early discussion can help avoid problems later.
• Avoid flashing lights, which can be devastating for light-sensitive people.
• Putting lighting on a timer could be a reasonable compromise to allow children to enjoy the lighting, while giving light-sensitive people the certainty of knowing they can safely go outside at a particular time. 
• Switching Christmas lights off after a certain time, say 11pm, will enable light-sensitive people (and everyone else) to sleep more easily.
• Be aware of and understand light sensitivity – the impact of external lighting needs to be taken seriously. We are asking individuals and organisations to be LightAware.

For further information contact info@lightaware.org

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