Electrical Equipment

Faulty electrical goods can cause fires. If you’re concerned about the safety of a product, stop using it and raise your concern with the retailer, manufacturer or your local Trading Standards office.

 

The London Fire Brigade has a list of recalled faulty products on its website.

 

• Make sure all electrical appliances have a British or European safety mark when you buy them

 

• Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order

 

• If you have a tumble dryer, empty fluff regularly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. You should also occasionally clean the extractor using a brush or gentle vacuuming.

 

• Hair straighteners get extremely hot so always switch them off and leave them to cool on a heatproof surface

 

• Keep to one plug per socket. High powered appliances such as washing machines, should have a single socket to themselves

 

• Always check that you’re using the right fuse: typical examples include: 3A fuse – Table lamp, television, computer, blender, fridge, freezer. 13A fuse – Washing machine, dishwasher, microwave, kettle, toaster, iron

 

• If you have to use an adaptor, use a fused ‘in line’ type but don’t overload it by adding extra plug-in adaptors or using high current appliances such as electric heaters.

 

Did you know?

 

From white goods to faulty chargers, electrical items are the number 4 fire risk in the home which means it's important to stay alert by ensuring electrical items are maintained in safe working order.

 

Want to know more?

 

It is important to know the signs of a potential electrical problem like scorch marks, flickering lights, hot plugs and sockets, fuses that blow or circuit-breakers that trip for no obvious reason. To learn more visit the London Fire Brigades guidance here.