Electrical fire safety awareness
Jan 27, 2012
It’s Electrical Fire Safety Week this week, from the 23rd to the 29th of January. The aim of this week is to highlight the potential hazards of electrical fire safety in the home and office.
During the colder winter months it may be likely that sockets are overloaded with additional heaters and electric blankets. Many of us could not live without our electrical appliances, especially in the kitchen, which is why it’s not surprising that most accidental fires start in the kitchen. It’s extremely important to check that all appliances are in good working order.
The Electrical Safety Council have developed an app which aims to help people identify risks in their home and offers advice on how to resolve them.
Mark Dalton, health and safety practitioner comments “Electrical appliances are a huge part of our daily lives. Mistakes are easily made, which could lead to devastating fires. Increased awareness will help to stop these mistakes from happening.”
Every individual can take steps to help themselves by checking that the electrical equipment they use everyday is in good shape and is operated properly:
- Don't overload plug sockets – this is something we have probably all been told to do. But it is very important to always bare this in mind when you have a number of appliances to plug in.
- Regularly check for worn or frayed wires
- Unplug appliances when not in use
- Keep appliances clean and in good working order
- Consider using a Residual Current Device which works like a circuit breaker to protect against electric shocks and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
- The Electrical Safety Council advises that heaters should be kept clear from curtains and furniture and should never be used for drying clothes.
- Your electric blanket should be unplugged before you go to bed, unless it has a thermostat for safe all-night use.
Fore more information please contact Wilby on 01422 358 525
