Each year, Electrical Safety First works with the Home Office to promote electrical fire safety in the home. Over half of all accidental house fires are caused by electricity, and nine out of ten electrical fires are caused by electrical products.

Please follow our guidance detailed below:-

Electric blankets

• Check that it meets UK safety standards by checking the label. 
• Check for any scorch marks or discoloured areas on the fabric of the blanket
• Before use read and follow the manufacturer's instructions
• Check that the electric cable is not damaged or frayed  
• Wires should not be visible or poking through the fabric
• The fabric should not be frayed or worn
• Do not use if the control makes a buzzing sound when switched on or gives off a burning smell
• Never use a hot water bottle at the same time as an electric blanket
• Don't touch the blanket if your feet or hands are wet
• Never use the blanket if it's wet or damp

Electric heaters 

• Don’t cover heaters or dry clothes on them.
• Don't cover air vents on storage heaters or fan heaters.
• If possible, secure heaters to walls so they can’t fall over.
• Position heaters away from flammable bedding, curtains and furniture.
• Don’t leave heaters unattended or fall asleep with them on. 
• They should be kept away from furniture and fittings. Make sure that nothing can fall onto a heater.

Electric sockets

Electrics can be extremely dangerous and are the leading cause of domestic fires in the UK. All electrical work or repairs must always be done by a qualified electrician.  

• Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Never run cords under carpets, rugs, doors or windows. 
• Keep electrical leads away from water
• Do not use damaged extension cords. 
• Keep electrical appliances and tools away from water. 
• If possible, switch off all appliances at the mains at the end of the working day.
• Never “daisy-chain” extension leads: plugging one extension lead into another increases the risk of electrical fires and electric shocks.
• Never use visibly damaged plugs, cables or sockets.
• Fully extend extension leads before use.
• Don’t overload sockets with too many electrical appliances.
• Always follow the manufacturer guidance for electric items.
• Only use chargers supplied with mobile phones and devices.
• Don’t leave mobile phones or devices charging overnight.

More than half of all house fires start in the kitchen. Government statistics show that the largest number of accidental reported fires caused by electricity in the home is due to people misusing electrical cooking appliances, such as microwaves.

You can follow the campaign across social media with the hashtag #EFSW.