How to keep your home electrically safe

For many people, an electrician is someone you call when something goes wrong. But most electricians would be happy if electrical appliances and wiring never went wrong in the first place. Here are a few tips to make sure that your home is as safe as possible - and to keep the electrician's visits to a minimum.

Check your appliances 

If an electrical appliance is in an unsafe condition, there may well be an obvious sign. Check your appliances regularly for frayed cords or exposed wiring, damaged or faulty plugs or signs of overheating or scorching. If you suspect that an appliance isn't working properly, unplug it, and don't use it again until it has been inspected by a qualified professional. It is not worth taking the risk of fire or electrocution. You should also ensure that any appliance that generates heat, such as a computer monitor, has several inches of space around it to ensure good air circulation.

Don't overload adaptors

Never plug adaptors into other adaptors to make more sockets - this can cause the adaptor to overheat and even catch fire. And if you are using a power board, make sure you do not plug more into it than it is designed for, and that it has an overload cut-out switch. If you are in any doubt as to what you can plug in, talk to your electrician. If you really don't have anywhere to plug in all your appliances, your electrician may be able to install further sockets safely.

Don't mix water and electricity

Water and electricity are a very dangerous combination. Keep all electrical equipment away from wet areas, such as your bathroom or swimming pool, and never bring an extension cord into a bathroom or other wet area. Also, do not inspect or clean any electrical appliance when your hands are wet. Water massively increases the chances of electrocution.

Make friends with your electrician

The best way to keep electricians out of your house is to invite them in! Have an annual electrical safety audit carried out by a qualified and licensed professional, and any potential problems will be identified and fixed before they become a danger to you and your family.

If you are in any doubt about your electrical wiring or appliances, just call in the professionals, and you can rest assured that your home electrics are fully functional - and safe.

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