It’s easy to use electricity safely at home if you are aware of the risks and take care. Not only will you keep your home safe but most importantly your family will be safe. Our tips can be a helpful start.

Extension Cords

1. Avoid running extension cords across doorways.
2. Do not place electric cords under carpets or mats, where they can be walked on or damage can go unnoticed.
3. Promptly replace or repair electric cords that are broken, frayed, damaged or tied in knots, or that have melted insulation.
4. Insert and remove plugs by holding the plug firmly. Do NOT pull on the cord as this could damage it. Be careful not to let fingers touch the metal prongs.
5. Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords.

Kitchen appliances

1.  Clean ovens, stoves and cook-tops regularly to prevent the build-up of spilled fats and burnt foods
2. Switch off and unplug your toaster before trying to remove toast that are stuck in the toaster
3. Safely remove bread crumbs from the toaster regularly as a build up can be hazardous

Electricity and water

1. Be extremely careful when using appliances connected to power points near wet areas including sinks, baths and swimming pools
2. If an electrical appliance has been immersed in water DO NOT attempt to turn it on, discard it immediately
3. Switch off and unplug after use all portable electrical appliances, such as hairdryers and shavers
4. Don’t use extension leads or power leads in wet areas unless specifically designed to do so
5. Never touch anything electrical with wet hands or bare feet.

 General appliances

1. Discard, replace or have repaired damaged electrical appliances (i.e. damaged/frayed cords; cracked housing; broken plugs)
2. Switch off power points before plugging/unplugging appliances
3. Switch off all appliances such as air conditioners, fans, ovens and cook tops when leaving your home
4. Ensure appliances have adequate space around and over it to prevent overheating
5. Remove all materials situated near stoves, heaters and lamps that are flammable
6. Extension cords should not be used in wet areas – unless specially designed to do so
7. Licensed electricians should undertake all your electrical work and repairs.
8. Call a qualified licensed electrical contractor if you experience any of the following; If power points or switches feel warm, frequent problems with burnt fuses or tripping circuits, flickering or dimming lights

Visit our Contractors page for a full list of Licensed Contractors