Each year, Government figures show that electricity issues cause more than 20,000 fires, and more than 2.5 million UK adults say they have experienced an electrical shock at home. Additionally disconcerting is that according to the Electrical Safety Council, 42 percent of consumers say they have never had their homes electrical systems checked for flaws or hazards. So what can you do to ensure the safety of your home and your family? There are few measures and precautions that can lessen your chance of a home fire.
First off, electricity is serious business. That is why it is necessary to enlist the expertise of local professionals, such as an electrician Fulham, electrician Chelsea, electrician Chiswick, or electrician richmond, when unsure about the viability of your homes electrical system. If you suspect an electrical danger, contact an electrician Fulham immediately. That being said, here are a few other precautions you can take before contacting an electrician Fulham.
Never overload your electrical sockets. The Electrical Safety Council website lists the amps and wattage for the most common household appliances to ensure you fall within safe guidelines. If you need more outlets, hire a certified electrician Fulham to install an outlet for you. Another safety precaution is to never touch electrical equipment with wet hands. That being said, if an outlet or light switch appears cracked or damaged, do not touch it at all and never plug anything into a socket that looks suspect. Make sure the wires from your appliances are in good working order, too. If nicked or damaged, it could lead to a hazardous situation. Last but not least, trust your intuition. If a circuit breaker keeps blowing for no obvious reason, if you smell plastic burning, or if you notice scorch marks around a plug, call an electrician fulham immediately.
When choosing your electrician Fulham, make sure they are registered, licensed, and certified. As such, the Electrical Safety Council and Electrical Contractors Association has a comprehensive directory called the Electrical Safety Register. This register consists of more than 33,000 certified contractors, including electrician fulham.