A large number of house fires are reported each year as being caused by damaged, faulty or misused electrical goods. Electrical fires can be easily avoided by following the simple advice below:
NEVER
- Never overload plug sockets. If too many electrical items draw power from one socket it can overheat and catch fire. An extension lead or adaptor will have a limit to how many amps it can take so make sure you check you’re not overloading it.
ALWAYS
- Always make sure you use the right fuse to prevent overloading. It’s so important to use the right fuse for each electrical appliance to make sure the cable doesn’t overheat, and that the appliance is protected in the event of a fault.
- Always stop using appliances if the cables are frayed or worn. Also check the cable is fastened securely to the plug and check sockets for scorch marks.
- Always check electrical blankets regularly for wear.
Plugs and Chargers
Plugs and chargers are generally intended for use with specific electrical devices. Always use a genuine charger that is designed for use with the product you have purchased.
NEVER
- Never use a charger that shows signs of damage or appears to not be working properly.
- Never cover a charger as it may build up heat during the charging process.
- Never use a laptop that suddenly shuts down, produces odd electrical smells and/or is hot to the touch. It could be overheating, causing the laptop to completely fail or even catch fire.
- Never use incompatible computer batteries and chargers with your laptop.
- Never leave a phone charger plugged in and turned on when not in use.
- Never leave mobile phones charging on soft furnishings or beds.
- Never leave e-cigarette batteries unattended whilst on charge and don’t leave them charging for long periods of time.
ALWAYS
- Always follow the battery usage, storage and charging guidelines in the user guide.
- Always use the genuine charger that is designed for use with the product as substandard and counterfeit electrical chargers can be dangerous.
- Always use the charger supplied for e-cigarettes as they need to be charged at the correct rate of charge. Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Always look for the CE mark that indicates chargers comply with European Safety standards.
AVOID
- Avoid using laptops on soft surfaces such as sofas, beds or carpets, which can restrict airflow.
REMEMBER
- Remember, when devices are fully charged disconnect them and turn the charger off.
Register your white goods appliances
Did you know that every year hundreds of products are recalled due to safety concerns such as risk of fire or electric shock. For this reason, we always recommend registering your electrical appliances so that you can be made aware if a product is recalled.
- Be the first to know of any safety repairs or recalls
- Improve your after sales service
- Keep in touch with upgrade news
Visit www.registermyappliance.org.uk for more information and to register your appliances.
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