Electrical Safety tips
  • Don’t remove a plug from a power point by pulling on the cord; pull the plug instead.
  • Never plug adaptors into adaptors and avoid using adaptors filled with plugs where possible.
  • Switch off electrical items that are not in regular use at the plug and ensure that when we are away from the house for any length of time that you unplug and switch off electrical items as items left plugged in can be a fire risk and waste energy if left on standby.
  • Do not use any electrical items in the bathroom unless specifically designed for use there, eg. Shavers and electric toothbrushes. Even with these items however, take care not to get wet and avoid plugging and unplugging with wet hands.
  • Do not use items with damaged cords so that the wires are exposed. Either repair or replace. Check items regularly. 
  • Do not use damaged sockets, replace with care when necessary. 
  • Always turn the electrics off at the mains if carrying out any electrical repairs and only attempt repairs if you know what you are doing.
  • Ensure any electrical items are approved standard when purchasing and keep them correctly maintained where necessary. Look for the BEAB seal of approval.
  • Do not use electrical equipment outside if it’s raining.
  • Use the correct wattage light bulb for all light fittings.
  • Circuit breakers and fuses should be the correct size current rating for their circuit.

Government figures estimate that there are:
  • 10 fatal & 2,000 non-fatal electric shock accidents in the house each year.
  • 19 fatal & 880 non- fatal electric shock accidents in the workplace each year
  • 12,500 electrical fires in homes accross the UK each year
In March 2006 the ESC published the results of their National Consumer Survey and found that:
  • 42% of consumers surveyed stated they had never had their electrics checked
  • 32% of consumers surveyed stated they had experienced 1 or more electric shocks whilst carrying out DIY 
  • 59% of people do not use qualified electricians when carrying out electrical work 
  • 35% of consumers surveyed said their electrics are over 15 years old and a further 21% stated they had no idea how old they were
  • 48% of those surveyed did not know that their electrics should be checked at least every 10 years