Electrical safety tips for your home

In this appliance- and computer-driven age, home electricity usage is at an all-time high. Here's how to keep things safe with simple electrical safety precautions.

Follow these key electrical safety tips and your home will be safe as houses (perhaps with the help of a professional electrical contractor too!):

Keep an eye on the signs - It's important to keep an eye out for signs that not all is as it should be when it comes to electrical safety in the home. Broken or damaged power points, faulty fixed wiring, extension leads with exposed wires and damaged appliances can all be potential sources of disaster. Be sure to call on the services of qualified electrical contractors to fix any faulty power points.

Take care with power points and cords - When disconnecting appliances, computers or home entertainment devices, always turn the power off at the wall before pulling the plug out. Remove the devices by gripping the plug, not the cord. If you have small children, make sure that all power points are fitted with plug protectors for safe home electricity usage.

Keep your appliances clean - A build-up of grease and dirt can affect the functionality of appliances and make them unsafe. Regularly clean your electrical appliances by disconnecting from the power point and wiping with a damp cloth. Toasters should have all breadcrumbs removed, kettles should be wiped down (especially around the connection) and fat should be cleaned from electrical cooking appliances.

Avoid piggybacking - 'Piggybacking' double adapters - that is, putting one on top of another - is extremely dangerous, as it overloads power points. For electrical safety at home, it is safer to use a power board or have more power points installed. Power boards are only suitable for devices like televisions and stereos, and should never be used with heavy-duty items like heaters or dryers.

Extension lead safety - When using extension leads, make sure they are fully unwound, otherwise overheating can occur. Also, keep them away from water and the elements, and don't wind them through doorways, as doors closing on them could cause damage to the rubber housing and make them unsafe.

Install safety switches - Safety switches are invaluable for protecting your appliances from power surges, and preventing electric shocks. They can be installed in your home's switchboard, in each electrical circuit, or plugged into individual sockets to protect against an electrical surge. Consult your electrician for the best combination of safety switches for your home.

If your home is in need of electrical maintenance or assessment by an expert, find a qualified electrician in your area: