Electrical safety in the home is an important aspect of maintaining a safe home environment.
We provide this information to all of our customers in the Bedford area as a way of making them aware of the potential dangers which can occur via their electrical system.
Whether you are a new homeowner or have lived in your house for years, it is essential to make sure you prioritise electrical safety to prevent accidents, fires, and other potential hazards. This blog will provide you with our five top electrical safety tips, helping you protect your property and loved ones from electrical accidents. If in doubt always contact your Local Electrician for advice.
Regular Electrical Inspections & Maintenance📋⚡
One of the fundamental steps in ensuring electrical safety is having regular testing and inspection Carried out and maintaining any damaged elements of your installation. Here are a few key actions to take:
- Schedule an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report): Arrange for a qualified electrician to perform an EICR. This will help identify any potential issues or outdated components that need to be addressed.
- Test your RCD (Residual Current Device): RCDs are safety devices designed to protect against electric shocks and fires. Test your RCDs every Six months by pressing the "test" button to ensure they are working correctly.
- Check for damaged wiring, socket/switches, light fittings etc: Regularly inspect your electrical accessories and visible wiring for signs of damage or wear and tear. If you notice any frayed wires, loose connections, or overheating outlets, immediately seek professional help to remedy the problem.
DIY Electrical Work❌
Please don't die for DIY, the amount of terrible DIY work we see is unbelievable. If you are unsure, always call a registered electrician with great reviews...like us! You can find local registered electricians in your area using the Electrical Competent Person Register.
Avoid Overloading Electrical Outlets⚠️
Overloading electrical outlets is a common mistake that can cause damage to outlets and even lead to a fire. Here is how to avoid this:
- Avoid connecting too many appliances or to a single outlet or Extension lead.
- Distribute your electrical load among different outlets to prevent overload.
- Avoid using extension cords as a permanent solution. If you require additional outlets, consult an electrician to install them safely.
Keep Water Away From Electricity🚿
Water and electricity do not mix well, so it is important to take precautions to keep them separate. Follow these guidelines:
- Keep electrical appliances away from water sources.
- Avoid using electrical devices near sinks, bathtubs, or pools.
- Additionally, ensure your hands are dry before touching any electrical equipment to minimise the risk of electric shock.
Smoke Detectors🔥
I always go on about this a lot, make sure to regularly check your smoke alarms! Smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years, batteries changed yearly (if necessary, some have a sealed lithium-ion battery), have the dust hoovered out every 6 months and the test button pressed every month!
Stay safe, and always prioritise electrical safety!
