Tony Bradley, from ACB Electrical Notts, who works across Mansfield and Ashfield, shares valuable tips and guidelines to help you maintain electrical safety within your home.

• Regular Electrical Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections (known as an EICR) by a qualified electrician to assess the condition of your home’s electrical system. They will identify potential hazards such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or outdated equipment.
• Socket Safety: Avoid overloading sockets by using extension leads and adaptors responsibly. Spread the load across different outlets and never plug multiple high-power appliances into a single socket. Replace damaged or loose sockets, switches and any other accessories promptly.
• Wiring and Cables: Inspect your home’s wiring and cables for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed insulation, exposed wires, or burning smells. Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires. If you notice any issues, contact a qualified electrician immediately for repairs or advice.
• DIY Electrical Work: While DIY projects can be fun and rewarding, electrical work should be left to professionals. Attempting electrical repairs or installations without the necessary expertise can lead to serious accidents. Always hire an approved electrician for any electrical work in your home.
• Appliance Safety: Regularly check the cords and plugs of your appliances for damage. Never use appliances with frayed or exposed wires, as they can cause shocks or fires. When not in use, unplug appliances to reduce the risk of electrical faults.
• Residual Current Devices (RCDs): Install RCDs in your home’s consumer unit (fuse box) to protect against electric shocks. RCDs monitor the electrical current and automatically disconnect the power if a fault is detected.
• Outdoor Electrical Safety: Pay attention to electrical safety when using outdoor power tools, garden lighting, or holiday decorations. Ensure that all outdoor electrical outlets and connections are weatherproof, and keep cords away from water sources.
• Educate Your Family: Teach your family members, especially children, about electrical safety practices. Emphasize the importance of avoiding water near electrical outlets, not playing with plugs or switches, and not sticking objects into sockets.
• Fire Safety: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including near sleeping areas. Regularly test the alarms to ensure they are functioning correctly. Create a fire escape plan and discuss it with your family, emphasizing the importance of electrical safety in preventing fires.

Remember, electrical safety is everyone’s responsibility. By following these guidelines, you can create a safer home environment for you and your loved ones. Prioritise electrical inspections, seek professional help when needed, and be vigilant about potential hazards. Together, we can prevent accidents and protect our community from electrical mishaps.