Firefighters support Electrical Safety Week

Cheshire Firefighters support Electrical Fire Safety Week

Firefighters are supporting Electrical Fire Safety Week, a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of one of the biggest causes of accidental fires in the country.
Run in association with the Chief Fire Officers Association, the charity Electrical Safety First, and fire and rescue services across the country, the campaign runs from November 7-13 and highlights the fact that over half of all accidental house fires are caused by electricity. And nine out of ten electrical fires are caused by electrical products.

Nick Evans, Head of Prevention at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Electrical appliances have become a staple of modern life- from fridges and phones to toasters or the TV, it's hard to think of how we would get by without a few electrically-powered essentials, but using these devices comes with a risk.
"Please follow the advice given to keep your family, home, pets and belongings safe. If you haven't already got a working smoke alarm on every floor of your home, then I would urge you to fit these "life saver" devices as a matter of urgency."
People can take a few simple steps to avoid a devastating fire in their homes.

• Don't overload plug sockets
• Regularly check for frayed or worn cables and wires
• Unplug appliances when not in use unless they are designed to be left on, like freezers.
• Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order
• Check for British or European safety mark
• Only use the chargers supplied for charging mobile phones and e-cigarettes
• Never leave portable heaters unattended
• Unplug electric blankets before you go to bed

If you are over 65 years of age and you live in Cheshire, Halton or Warrington, you can request a visit to your home for a free home safety visit. During the home safety visit, advice will be given on how to make your home safer, what to do in the event of a fire and what to do if you are trapped by a fire. Free smoke alarms will also be fitted (if needed) with an explanation on how to maintain them correctly.
For more information about electrical safety advice please visit the website www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.

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