Electrical faults, damaged appliances and unsafe charging habits can all cause fires in the home.
Check for overloaded sockets, damaged plugs and frayed cables, replace unsafe or counterfeit chargers and leads, and switch off and unplug appliances when they're not in use.
Register appliances where possible so you can receive recall alerts.
7 top electrical safety tips
- Check for overloaded sockets, hot plugs, scorch marks and damaged cables.
- Replace unsafe or counterfeit chargers and leads.
- Switch off and unplug appliances when not in use.
- Don't overload extension leads or plug one extension lead into another.
- Fully unwind cable drums before use.
- Only leave appliances on overnight if they are designed to stay on.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when charging. Use a compatible charger and don't charge devices along your escape route.
Warning signs to look out for
Stop using an appliance, charger, plug or socket if you notice a burning smell, sparks, overheating, scorch marks, hot plugs or sockets, flickering lights, or circuit breakers tripping for no obvious reason.
If in doubt, get it checked by a qualified electrician.
Safer charging and extension leads
Use the correct charger for each device and charge on a hard, flat surface rather than on beds or sofas.
Don't cover chargers or charging devices and don't leave them charging longer than necessary.
Avoid overloading adaptors and extension leads, especially with high-powered appliances.
Lithium-ion batteries, e-bikes and e-scooters
Take extra care with lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, e-scooters, power tools, mobility devices, toys and other rechargeable products.
Don't charge them on escape routes, in bedrooms, while asleep or when nobody is at home.
Batteries and lithium-ion charging
Smoke alarms and escape planning
Make sure you have working smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them regularly. Plan how you would get out if a fire started, keep exits clear and leave keys where everyone can find them quickly.
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