Electricity plays a huge part in our lives. Electrical safety is something everyone should be aware of, including children. Knowing how to use electricity and electrical appliance safety can reduce the risk of harm or fault occurring due to improper use.
Electricity can be dangerous when misused and can pose a massive risk to your safety at home; faulty electrics cause around a quarter of fires in the house. From having regular electrical inspections from your local Plymouth electrician to knowing the signs of faulty electrics, this post looks at ways to improve your home’s electrical safety.
What are the Dangers of Electricity?
There are many dangers of unsafe electrics, and you should never attempt to fix faulty ordangerous electrics yourself. This risk of this includes;
- Shocks
If you touch an exposed wire still in contact with a live wire, you can expect an electrical shock. Electrical shocks can cause burns, amnesia, respiratory arrest, or death.
- Dampness
When electrical wires or cables become wet or damp, the exposed wiring can be fatal as the wet live conductor is highly hazardous to everyone
- Power Surge
Spikes in electricity can damage sensitive household appliances. An increased current can damage electrical items and wiring or even cause a fire.
- Overloading Sockets
Overloading sockets can lead to overheating, which can cause fires that can destroy your home and your belongings and become a danger to life.
What are the Signs of Faulty Electrics?
To ensure complete electrical safety, you should be aware of the signs of faulty electrics to call for a Plymouth electrician immediately before any further damage is caused. Signs of damage to your electricity can include;
- Dimming or flickering lights
- Walls that are warm to the touch around electrical wires
- Buzzing, hissing sounds
- Sparks from sockets
- Charred or discolored outlets or switches
- Fuses that go out regularly
- An unexplained burning smell
- Outlets that are hot to the touch
If you notice any of these signs, contact an electrician immediately and isolate the electrical supply if it is safe to do so.
Electrics and Water Do Not Mix
You should never mix electricity and water if you didn’t already know. You should never use electricity in or around water, including handling electrical items with wet hands. Avoid plugging things into sockets with wet hands or using electrical items in the bathroom. Mixing water and electricity can result in electrocution. Make sure any children in the home know this to avoid accidental electrocution.
Unplug Unused Appliances
It is safer to leave an appliance unplugged than to leave it plugged in. Plugged-in devices continue to draw power even while in standby mode, saving you money, but it also protects them from overheating and power surges. If your outlets are a little challenging to reach, such as those hidden behind bookcases or sofas, consider investing in a smart plug or an energy-saving extension bar if you have the option.
Allow Air Circulation
Electrical equipment requires space for air to move around it to keep it cool while it is in use. It can overheat and become a fire danger if this is not done. It is not advisable to place anything on top of electrical appliances such as microwaves or to leave any electrical equipment running in cupboards. Make sure that any freestanding heaters are at least one foot away from the wall if you plan to use them in your home.
Store Cables Correctly
Electrical safety is essential at all times, not just while cables are in use. Remember to keep them stored away carefully while you are not currently using them. It is not recommended to wrap wires around objects (such as your hairdryer or laptop plug) since this might cause them to become stretched and overheat. In addition, never place an electricity cable on a heated surface, as this can cause damage to the insulation and wiring in the cable itself.
Don’t Overload Sockets
Electricity fires are frequently caused by people overloading plug sockets. As mentioned above, overloaded sockets can be extremely dangerous. Always check to see that the sockets are entirely cool to the touch. In addition, only one heat-producing item should be plugged into a multi-way socket at a time and when using extension cables, stick to this limit to avoid overheating.
Repair or Replace Damaged Wiring or Plugs
If you notice any damage to wiring or plugs, mobile phone chargers can become damaged quickly. Stop using them immediately and replace them as soon as possible. Continuing to use damaged wires or cables can lead to disastrous consequences.
Use the Correct Fuse
Always use the correct fuse for the appliance. When changing the fuse, make a note of the current one so you can replace it with a like-for-like fuse. Keep spare fuses handy if they become damaged so you can replace them immediately.
Follow Manufacturers Directions
Ensuring you know how to use your electrical appliances at home safely will improve your electrical safety and reduce the need to call for an emergency Plymouth Electrician. It will also help you maintain the appliance and improve its lifespan. Always read the instructions.
Avoid Counterfeit Goods
Counterfeit or imported goods don’t always meet the UK’s electrical good standards and safety guidelines and are one of the leading causes of electrical house fires in the home. Often, the electrical components aren’t suitable for use, and consumers are recommended to only use approved electrical items or manufacturers’ parts or replacements, for example, mobile phone chargers and batteries.
Have Regular Electrical Inspections
One of the best ways to improve your electrical safety in the home is periodic electrical inspections. For landlords and commercial properties, regular inspections are a legal requirement. But all homeowners and tenants alike should ensure their electrics are fit for purpose by booking an electrical inspection with experienced electricians such as ourselves. At Goodwin Electrical, we have many years of experience working with a range of electrical installations and are experienced in commercial and domestic settings.
For a free survey call Goodwin Electrical on 01752 916047 or fill in our Free Quote Form
