Using electricity safely is a combination of using your common sense and knowing
where the potential dangers are and how to minimise them. Here are some
essential safety tips.

| Kitchen |
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Don't let pan handles or electrical cords hang over the edge of your stove,
where children can reach them.
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Keep your stove top clear of everything except cooking utensils.
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Never run a cord over your stove top.
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Don't leave cords and appliances near wet areas.
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Never fill your kettle while it's plugged in.
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Dry your hands before touching power points (this applies wherever you are in
the house).
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If toast gets stuck in your toaster, unplug it before trying to get the toast
out.
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| Bathrooms and laundry |
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Don't use extension cords in the bathroom or laundry.
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Keep appliances away from wet areas.
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Heaters and heated towel rails should be permanently wired by a registered
electrician.
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Clean your dryer's dust filter regularly to remove the risk of fire.
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| Hot water safety |
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Even the recommended temperature of 50 - 55ÂșC can cause burns. Always treat hot
water with extreme care.
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Install a hot water mixing valve to control the temperature of your tap water.
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Make sure taps are clearly marked hot and cold.
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Always run the cold water first when running a bath, then add the hot water.
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| Keeping your appliances safe |
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Replace damaged plugs or frayed cords immediately.
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If an appliance begins to smoke, you notice a burning smell or you get a slight
shock, switch it off at the wall immediately and either replace it or seek
advice from a registered electrician.
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Don't overload your power points. If you need more power points, contact a
registered electrician to have them installed or make sure you have a
multi-plug board with a built in overload switch.
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| Being safe with electricity outside |
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Only use one-piece extension cords. Never, ever plug two cords together.
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Don't use electric mowers or hedge clippers in the rain or after heavy dew.
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When using a mower or clipper, keep the power cord clear of the area you are
working in.
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When working outside, use a Safety Switch (Residual Current Device) or an
isolating transformer. The Safety Switch automatically disconnects the circuit
if there is a leakage to earth and the possibility of an electric shock.
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| Overhead powerlines |
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Keep extension ladders, boat masts and window washing equipment away from power
lines.
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Never climb anywhere near power lines.
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| Safety checklist |
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If you answer 'No' to any of these questions, either fix the problem or contact
your electrician immediately.
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Do you have enough power points in your business, eliminating the need for
overloaded multi-plugs?
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Are your power points in good condition?
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Are all power points firmly attached to the wall?
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Are all your plugs in good condition?
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Are all the cords and connections to the plug in good condition?
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Are all the power points in any kitchens placed in such a way that you don't
have to reach over toasters, kettles or ovens?
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Are all your appliances in good condition?
Who to call
If you have any questions about electricity safety, please call our Dedicated
Business Team on 0800 20 18 20.
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