Electrical Fires - Safety Update

Advice from the Electrical Safety Council
Appliance misuse is the top cause of all fires in British homes and the number has increased by over a third since 2009. Millions of people are committing basic electric safety 'blunders' in the home without realising that they are exposing themselves to the risk of fire or electric shock. These include:

• using the microwave as an additional surface and blocking air vents
• leaving the tumble dryer running unattended or overnight
• blocking air vents by failing to clean behind the fridge/freezer
• overloading adaptor sockets
• leaving electrical appliances on while unattended, only to be alerted by a burning smell

With a considerable increase in the number of higher risk appliances in homes over the last few years, we believe that there is a clear link between the lack of understanding about electrical dangers and the surge in 'blunder fires'.

Our simple tips will help you to stay safe in the home. Click on the links below for further information about home safety.

Top home safety tips

Five simple tips to help reduce electrical fires in the home:

• Ensure you have adequte RCD protection in your fusebox
• Ensure your home has a full periodic inspection and test from a registered electrician
• Avoid using faulty or damaged electrical appliances, lighting and sockets. If you think there is a fault with your installation or appliance, stop using it immediately and ask a registered electrician for advice
• Conduct a visual check of your home by downloading the ESC's free 'Home Electrical Safety Check' smartphone app
• Visit the ESC's Facebook page for more tips

Local Help in Haddenham

For expert advice, without obligation, please contact one of the Part P qualified electricians based in Haddenham. You will find them list in our SERVICES section, under 'Building Trades'