Here at ICOL Property Maintenance Ltd, we want to try and help you and your family to keep safe at home and in the garden. Here are some simple electrical safety rules that we think you should know.
1. Try and get into the habit of turning off electric games, phone chargers and any other small appliance when they're not in use. This is especially important for when you are going to bed, make it a routine to check that all electrical devices not in use are properly shut off.
2. Be careful about using extension leads. While they are readily available and should always come with a fused plug, you simply can not rely on their quality or if the fuse fitted is adequate.
3. Always try to use a RCD(residual current device) Plug and Socket Adaptor to prevent electrical shocks. All new consumer units are fitted with these which ensures that you are protected indoors. Additional 13amp Plugs can be easily purchased and should be used whenever using electrical tools and appliances outdoors.
4. It is always a good idea to periodically check the condition of your plugs, sockets and light fittings. Look out for any signs of damage or faults, which could include discolouration of faceplates, a burning smell, frayed wires on appliances, sparking when turning on sockets, flickering lights.
5. Never run any electrical leads run under carpets or rugs. They could be damaged unintentionally and cause an accident.
6. Take care in the kitchen when using a lot of appliances. Make sure that electric cables don’t accidentally trail over kitchen appliances like toasters or stove tops or fall into area’s that are wet.
7. When make holes in the walls of your home know your safe zones. Electrical standards state that all electrical cabling should be installed vertically and horizontally from the ceiling or floor to the outlet it is supplying. It also advisable to use a suitable detection device before starting work.
8. Avoid touch your appliances with wet hands and never place water or other liquids on top of electrical appliances. Items such as kettles and irons must always be unplugged before filling them
9. Always check appliances like hair dryers, hair straighteners or radios that are often used in bathrooms.
10. Make sure that your children are always supervised whiling using electrical appliances and use plastic electrical socket cover.