Staying safe in your home – Electrical advice
We wanted to share our tips for keeping safe when it comes to all things electrical.
Electrical issues are the number one cause of household fires so please remain vigilant. You should make sure:
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Never overload an extension lead by plugging in appliances that together will exceed the maximum current rating stated for the extension lead. This could cause the plug in the wall socket to overheat and possibly cause a fire.
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Only use one socket extension lead per socket and never plug an extension lead into another extension lead.
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Only use an official manufacturer’s charger and do not leave unattended.
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If using a cable drum extension lead, it should be completely unwound to avoid overheating.
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There are no cuts or abrasions in the cable covering (sheath).
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The outer covering of the cable is gripped by the cord grip in the plug top, so that no coloured cable cores are visible from outside of the plug.
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The plug casing is not cracked, and the pins are not bent.
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There are no signs of overheating or burning, particularly at the plug and socket.
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There are no loose parts or screws.
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No part of the appliance is damaged or missing.
You should check regularly for the following danger signs:
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A smell of hot plastic or burning near an appliance or socket.
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Sparks or smoke coming from a plug or appliance.
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Blackness or scorch marks around a socket or plug, or on an appliance.
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Damaged or frayed leads.
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Coloured wire inside leads showing at the plug or anywhere else.
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Melted plastic on appliance casings or leads.
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Fuses that blow or circuit- breakers that operate for no obvious reason.
If you have any concerns about your home safety, please get in touch with us urgently by calling 0300 123 1567. Don’t forget, always call 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured, and their life is at risk.
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