Find out why electrical safety tests are important, what to do if the power goes out, and how to use electric heaters and blankets safely in this helpful guide to electrical safety.
Remember, one of the best ways to prevent accidents is to regularly check your electrics and appliances to make sure everything is in good working order.
Once every five years, we’ll ask you to give us access to your home to carry out an electrical safety test, where we’ll make sure all your appliances are working properly.
Some homes might need a test more often than every five years, depending on the results of your previous safety test.
If you're concerned that you've not recently had an electrical safety test, and would like to know when your next test is due please let us know via the form on our Contact us page.
It’s a good idea to always have a battery-operated light or torch in an easy-to-reach place, just in case there’s a power cut or electrical failure.
- make sure your mobile phone is nearby at all times, in case you need to make an emergency call
- if you’re using matches and candles, make sure they’re completely out before you go to sleep or leave the room
- always keep candles in a proper holder and away from things that could catch fire like furniture or curtains
- if your home is cold because of the powercut, don’t try to use candles to try and heat your home
We always ask customers not to use portable heaters, but we understand that some people feel they have no choice. If you do use them, please follow this guidance to help keep you and your family safe:
- never leave an electric heater unattended, even if you’re at home
- always unplug electric heaters when you go out or go to bed
- prevent heaters from falling over by trying to secure them to a wall, keeping them on a level surface, and well away from anything or anyone that could knock them over
- only use electric or portable heaters in well-ventilated areas.
never power heaters from extension leads, as they can become overloaded and cause a fire - always check your heater for wear and tear and don’t use it if it isn’t in good condition
only buy appliances from reputable companies - register your appliances in case the manufacturer ever recalls them
- make sure your smoke alarms are working, so any fire is caught early and you can get out safely
Electric blankets are very cosy and warm but come with their own set of risks.
Follow these tips to minimise the risk of any problems:
- avoid using a hot water bottle when you’re on an electric blanket, even if it’s switched off – this is in case water leaks onto the wiring in the blanket
- try not to buy second-hand blankets as they may be damaged without you realising
- check your electric blanket regularly for wear and tear, and replace it after 10 years
- always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- unplug blankets when you get into bed (unless they have a thermostat and it will switch off automatically)
- damage to the internal wiring of an electric blanket can be dangerous, so keep yours flat, loosely folded or gently rolled up when not using
get your electric blankets tested every three years by your local fire service
