NAPIT are fully supporting Electrical Fire Safety week from January 23rd- 29th 2012. In terms of everyday domestic danger, electricity is massively underestimated and people still choose to turn a blind eye when it comes to electrical safety awareness, despite the potentially fatal consequences which stem from domestic hazards such as defective electric blankets or overloaded sockets.
50% of domestic fires are caused by faulty or misused electrical equipment, and as dangerous, sub-standard counterfeit products (including anything from mobile phone chargers and hand held games) have seen an unprecedented increase in recent years, exercising vigilance toward domestic electrical safety is more important today than it ever has been.
Here are some tips to point you towards domestic electrical safety:
· Electrical wires can easily cause accidents, so keep them safe and tidy
· Keep wiring away from heat sources such as those found in the kitchen
· Ensure all electrical products are switched off or unplugged when not in use
· Use a stud/cable detector when hanging pictures to avoid hitting electrical cables
· Avoid overloading plug sockets and use fused multi-adapters whenever possible
· Remember, stereos and other electrical products do not belong in the bathroom
· Regularly inspect and repair any worn plugs, wires or other electrical components
· Use a residual current device (RCD) to avoid potentially fatal electric shocks
Sir Ken Knight CBE, QFSM, DL, MIFireE is England & Wales’ Chief Inspector of Fire Services and Chief Fire and Rescue Adviser; he spearheads the FireKills campaign and actively promotes (electrical) fire safety awareness which he commented on:
"Electrical equipment is an inescapable part of all our lives, from essentials like heating and lights to luxuries like entertainment systems or beauty products. Half of all accidental fires begin with an electrical appliance, so it’s really important to be sure that your electrics are in good working order and are used properly. Most electrical fires start in the kitchen, so be extra careful with cooking equipment. Fire in the home can be devastating, but many of these fires are preventable. By following some simple steps, you can help keep you and your loved ones safe from fire."
NAPIT’s Sales and Marketing Director Andy Sharp reinforced Sir Ken Knight’s advice:
“Electrical Fire Safety Week is a key time for NAPIT, our industry and the general public we strive to protect. If any consumers have doubts about the integrity of their power supply or any of their electrical appliances, they should employ a Part P registered electrician to investigate and to remedy any defects.”
There couldn’t be a better time for householders wishing to confirm the safety of electrics in their home and to consult an expert who can conduct an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which in laymen terms is a thorough test of your electrical system and appliances. They could also inspect your consumer unit and where applicable, install a residual current device (RCD) so as to prevent potentially fatal electric shocks. Reputable and Part P registered NAPIT installers operate throughout the UK and can provide peace of mind for anyone fretting over any electrical issue; electricians local to you can easily be found by visiting www.napit.org.uk/fastSearch.asp.
