It’s easy to use electricity safely at home if you understand the risks and take care. Our tips can be a helpful start to help you and your families stay safe around power in your homes.
|
General appliances:
|
|
 |
Remove electrical appliances with damaged/frayed cords or cracked or broken plugs |
|

|
Turn off power points before plugging/unplugging appliances
|
|

|
Turn off all appliances such as irons, electric kettle, and hair straighteners and stove tops if no longer in use before leaving home
|
|
 |
Ensure adequate space around appliances to prevent overheating
|
|

|
Remove all combustible material from stoves, heaters and lamps
|
|
 |
Extension cords should not be used in wet areas
|
|

|
Licensed electricians should undertake all your electrical work and repairs
|
|
|
|
Electricity and Water:
|
|

|
Be extremely careful when using appliances connected to power points near sinks or baths
|
|

|
If an electrical appliance has been immersed in water it must be discarded immediately
|
|

|
Switch off and unplug all portable electrical appliances, such as hairdryers, shavers, etc. after use
|
|

|
Don’t use hairdryers in bathroom areas
|
|

|
Never touch anything electrical with wet hands or bare feet.
|
|
|
|
Kitchen appliances:
|
|

|
Regularly clean range hood filters
|
|

|
Clean ovens and hot plates regularly to prevent the build-up of spilled fats and burnt foods
|
|

|
Install a ventilation system, flue or exhaust fan in the kitchen to remove fumes while cooking
|
|

|
Switch off and unplug your toaster before trying to remove toast or crumpets that are caught in the toaster
|
|

|
Remove bread crumbs from the toaster regularly as a build up can be hazardous
|
|

|
Never leave cooking unattended
|
|
|
|
Extension leads:
|
|

|
Extension cords with damaged plugs or cords should be discarded
|
|

|
Position extension cords along walls and around furniture
|
|

|
Extension cords should have 3 pins (plugs with 2 pins are not earthed and should be used only with double insulated electrical equipment)
|
|

|
Cords should not be draped over benches where they can be caught or grabbed.
|
|
|