Electrical Safety in the Home

Electricity deserves respect. Here are some safety tips:

Do regular checks:

• Check the age of your wiring. Electrical wiring which has not been renewed in the last 30 years is likely to have been made using cables insulated with rubber, which have a limited life because the rubber continues to vulcanize and harden. If your wiring is of this type, it might be time to call in an electrician.
• Get your installation checked at least every ten years.
• Check sockets for burn marks or over-heating.
• Check that appliances with flexible cables are properly attached to the plug and that the cable is undamaged.
• Check that you are not using more than one double adaptor in a power point to avoid overheating.
• Check power sockets to make sure there are no burn marks or cracks.
• Make sure extension cords are fully unwound so they don't overheat.

Don't try to repair a faulty wiring or a faulty appliance yourself. Call a licensed electrician.

Remember not to use electrical appliances with wet hands.

If you spill liquid on an appliance that's not water resistant, or you feel a slight 'tingle' while you're using it, switch it off at the power point and have it checked.

Don't leave hairdryers or electric shavers near the bath or basin, and don't use portable heaters in the bathroom.
Never throw water on an electrical fire.

Links:

For more information about electrical safety, contact the organisation that works to promote electrical safety:  The Electrical Safety Council

www.esc.org.uk

Upkeep training on electrics: Domestic Electrical and Heating Installations

Our electrics display shows a full domestic electrical installation, together with information about energy saving and the building regulations.