More than half of all accidental 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, including microwaves.So it’s important that you take special care when using electrical appliances. The mixture of water, hot surfaces, flexible cables and electricity can be very dangerous. Follow our tips to stay safe.Sockets and switchesTo avoid water coming into contact with electricity, make sure that your sockets or switches are fitted at a safe distance (at least 30cm horizontally) from the sink.If appliances such as fridges, dishwashers and washing machines are fitted under worktops, getting to sockets may be difficult. Ideally, these appliances should be controlled by a switched fuse connection unit mounted above the worktop where you can reach it easily.If a socket in the kitchen, or anywhere else in the house is likely to be used to supply portable equipment outdoors, it should be protected by an RCD.Never use switches or any electrical equipment when your hands are wetSimple tips for kitchen safetyDon’t leave electrical appliances like dishwashers or washing machines running unattendedDon’t wrap flexible cables around any equipment when it is still warmCheck that flexible leads and appliances such as kettles and toasters are in good conditionDon’t try to clean or repair an appliance when it is still plugged inNever try to get toast that is stuck out of a toaster while it is plugged in, and especially not with a metal knife as there are often live parts insideMake sure you thoroughly clean your oven and grill – a build up of fat and grease is a major cause of firesCheck your plug sockets are not overloaded with too many electrical appliances as this can lead to overheatingAvoid storing objects on top of appliances like the microwave, which can block ventilationDefrost your fridge and freezer at least once a year to ensure these appliances continue to work properlyMake sure you have a working smoke detector in case something does go wrongFor further information go to: www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk
