Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is warning people not to let electrical failures or accidents set their world alight as part of Electrical Fire Safety Week this 23-29 January.
Shocking statistics show that half of all accidental house fires in 2010/11 were caused by faulty or misused electrical equipment.
In 2010/11, faulty or misused electrical products were responsible for almost 400 fires across Staffordshire with 73% of those fires taking place in the kitchen. One in five people involved in the incidents was elderly and 28% of the properties had no smoke alarms fitted.
From faulty washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers to dodgy plugs and wiring, electrical equipment can be an unnoticed fire hazard in the home.
Electrical fire safety tips:
- Don’t overload plug sockets
- Regularly check for worn or frayed wires
- Unplug appliances when not in use
- Keep appliances clean and in good working order
- Consider using an RCD – Residual Current Device – which works like a circuit breaker to protect against electric shocks and reduces the risk of electrical fires
- Make sure heaters are kept clear from curtains, furniture and any other combustible items
- Heaters should never be used for drying clothing
To help keep you and your family safe from fire, Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service provide free Home Fire Risk Checks and, where necessary, free smoke alarms. By calling 0800 0241 999 you can arrange for a firefighter to visit your home and offer fire safety advice specific to you and your household.
For all other non-emergency enquiries contact: 08451 22 11 55 or log onto: www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/firekills. In an emergency dial 999.
