Electrical safety

photo of overloaded socket catching fire

Contents

Why electricity?

Electricity is a fire hazard because it makes things around it heat up.  With proper ventilation, this should not normally be a problem, but care should be taken nonetheless to ensure that plugs, sockets, wires and appliances are ventilated appropriately.  This page contains a lot of advice on the various elements of electrical appliances and how to ensure they remain safe in operation.  As a rule, if there is anything you don't understand, you should always consult a qualified electrician who is a member of the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting.

Fuses

Electrical circuits rely upon the correct use of circuit-breakers, called fuses, to cut the power to the appliance in the event that something goes wrong.  This is because when an electrical appliance goes wrong, it can heat up more than it normally would, which has the potential to start a fire.

A broken or missing fuse will prevent an appliance from working at all, and so there is no risk of that appliance causing a fire under those circumstances.  However, a working but incorrect type of fuse can actually allow a malfunctioning appliance to keep operating in conditions which might cause it to start a fire.  This is particularly dangerous, as you won't necessarily be aware of the problem until you can smell burning.  By this time, your furnishings could already be alight.

All electrical appliance manuals should advise you on the correct type of fuse to use, and you should never disregard these instructions unless you understand exactly what you are doing.  If in doubt consult a qualified electrician.

  • Always use a three-pin plug which conforms to BS 1363 and carries the kite mark
  • Always use fuses that are correct for the appliance and conform to BS 1362

Adaptors

So-called 'multi-way adaptors' are devices that allow you to plug in more than one appliance per socket on your wall.  These should not be used unless you know exactly what you are doing:  You need to know the power which each attached appliance draws and that each adaptor and socket in the chain will cope with the loads placed on them.  This can be complex and if you are in any doubt you should consult a qualified electrician.

  • Overloading a socket by using several adapters, or too many high-power appliances, can cause overheating and fire
  • Remember that 'one appliance, one socket' is the safest practice

Trailing leads and extension cables

Electrical cables get naturally warm.  When using an extension cable, ensure that it is pulled out fully from any containing drum so that heat cannot build up within the wires.  Trailing leads should contain the correct fuse and conform to BS 1363/A.

Wiring

Most electrical faults arising from overheating can be detected by regular inspection of wires, plugs and sockets. If any of these are hot to the touch or appear to be burnt, there is a problem that needs to be rectified before something catches fire.  A fuse that keeps 'blowing' is a sign that there is a fault with the wiring or the appliance and this should be investigated by a qualified electrician.  Flickering lights can also indicate a problem.

  • Don't remove plugs by pulling the flex, as this can break the wires - pull on the housing of the plug instead
  • Ensure that the outer sheath of the flex is fastened under the clamp within the plug
  • Flex should not be run under carpets as any damage to it will go unseen.

General precautions

  • Switch off and unplug all electrical equipment when not in use
  • Some appliances are designed to be left plugged in or even switched on when not in use. While this may be a requirement of the appliance's function, it does increase the risk of an electrical fire.  If in doubt, ask the manufacturer of the appliance or the shop from which you bought it
  • Electricity can be complex. Consult a qualified electrician unless you know exactly what you are doing.

Further information and links

Request a FREE Home Fire Safety Check today

Allow us to assess your home for risks that include the use of electrical products and to fit life-saving smoke alarms - all for FREE.