Electrical safety
Accidental electrical fires in the home accounted for more than 22,000 fires in England in 2007, causing nearly 4,000 injuries and 40 deaths.
Electrical fires can start for a range of reasons, varying from faulty appliances and leads, frayed wiring, overloaded sockets and the misuse of equipment, but a few simple checks and precautions can help keep you and your property safe.
Electrical appliances
- Turn off and unplug all electrical appliances when you are not using them, except those that are meant to be permanently switched on (like the fridge or DVD recorder).
-
Make sure plugs have the correct fuse for the appliance being used. If in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
-
Use only one plug in each socket.
-
Avoid multi-way adapters and overloading electric sockets by using several adapters, as they may overheat.
-
Don't run leads or cables under carpets or rugs because you won't be able to see if they become damaged.
-
Check for signs of loose wiring and faulty plugs or sockets (such as scorch marks or flickering lights) and ask an electrician to fix them.
-
Replace worn, damaged or taped-up leads and cables.
-
Always use a proper ironing board and turn off the iron after use. Make sure the iron is left to cool on a heat-resistant surface away from curtains, carpets and anything else that may catch fire.
-
Always switch off hair straighteners/curling tongs after use and leave to cool on a heat-resistant surface away from curtains, carpets and anything else that can catch fire.
Electric blankets
Replace your blanket if it has fraying fabric, scorch marks, exposed elements, creasing/folding, soiling, loose connections or any other type of damage. It should also be replaced if it has a BEAB safety mark, as this means it is more than 10 years old.
- Never fold electric blankets as this can damage the wires. Store them flat or rolled up.
- Don’t leave an electric blanket switched on all night, unless it is has controls for safe all-night use.
- Never use a hot water bottle in the same bed as an electric blanket – even if it is switched off.
- Check whether it is an under or over-blanket and use it only for that purpose.
- Use the ties on an under-blanket to secure it to the mattress. This prevents slipping and creasing which could damage the elements.
- Have your electric blanket tested every three years.
- Replace your electric blanket at least every 10 years.
If you notice any of the following warning signs, ask a qualified electrician to check your wiring.
- Hot plugs and sockets.
- Fuses that blow for no obvious reason.
- Lights that flicker.
- Brown scorch marks on sockets, plugs and fuse boxes.
