10 Electrical Safety Tips For Homeowners
- B&B Services Ltd
- Jan 20
- 7 min read
Top Tips for Electrical Safety Around the Home
Electricity powers our homes and makes daily life more convenient, but it can also pose serious risks if not handled properly.
At B&B Services Ltd, we understand the importance of electrical safety and want to help homeowners in Newent and Gloucestershire stay protected. Here are ten essential electrical safety tips to keep your home and family safe:
Never Overload Sockets
Plugging too many devices into one outlet can cause overheating and increase the risk of fire. Be mindful when using extension leads and be sure to use ones with built-in surge protection. It's also vital that you avoid daisy-chaining multiple adaptors. Here are some ways you can ensure socket safety throughout your property:
✔️ Use extension leads with built-in surge protection.
✔️ Spread appliances across multiple sockets.
✔️ Check wattage ratings before plugging in multiple devices.
✔️ Consider upgrading electrical outlets if needed.
✔️ Consult a qualified electrician for advice on safe power distribution.
Keeping your sockets properly managed ensures a safer home environment. If you’re unsure about your electrical system’s safety, contact us!
Check Cords and Wires Regularly
Frayed, cracked, or exposed wires are a major hazard. Here is a list of ways faulty or damaged wires can effect your home:
Causes Electrical Fires – Exposed or frayed wires can cause sparks, leading to potential fires. Damaged cords are a common cause of house fires.
Increases Risk of Electric Shocks – Worn-out insulation can expose live wires, increasing the risk of electric shocks, which can be dangerous or even fatal.
Inefficient Performance – Faulty wiring can lead to poor electrical performance, causing flickering lights, intermittent power supply, or overheating of appliances.
Leads to Expensive Repairs – Catching minor wear and tear early can prevent bigger, more costly electrical issues down the line.
Puts Household Members and Pets at risk – Curious children and pets may touch or chew on exposed wires, putting them at risk of injury.
Inspect your cables frequently and contact one of our professional electricians to replace any that show signs of wear and tear.
Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Ensure that electrical devices such as hairdryers, toasters, and chargers are kept far from sinks, bathtubs, and any other water sources. Even small splashes can cause malfunctions or create shock risks. You can help prevent danger by doing the following:
Never use electrical devices with wet hands – Touching electrical appliances, light switches, or plugs with wet hands increases the risk of electric shocks. Always dry your hands thoroughly before handling any electrical equipment.
Get an RCD installed – Residual Current Devices (RCDs) automatically shut off power if they detect moisture or an electrical fault. They should be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas.
Keep Outdoor Electrical Outlets Covered – Rain, sprinklers, and humidity can affect outdoor sockets and lights. Use weatherproof covers to protect them from moisture and potential damage.
Avoid Running Cables Near Water Sources - Extension leads and cables should not be placed where they could come into contact with water or excessive humidity. If you need power near a water source, have a professional install a safe, waterproof outlet.
Don’t Use Electrical Appliances in the Bathroom - Hairdryers, radios, and other plug-in devices should not be used near bathtubs or showers. If an appliance falls into water while plugged in, do not attempt to retrieve it—turn off the power at the breaker first.
Be Cautious During Flooding or Leaks - If your home experiences flooding or a major leak, avoid touching electrical outlets or appliances that may have been affected. Turn off the power supply at the main breaker and give us a call before attempting any repairs.
Moisture can cause hidden damage to wiring and outlets over time. Regular inspections from a licensed electrician can help identify and fix potential hazards before they become dangerous.
Turn off appliances when not in use
Turning off appliances when not in use is a simple yet effective way to improve safety, reduce energy consumption, and protect your home from potential hazards. Here are the key reasons why you should make it a habit:
Reduce the risk of fire – Leaving appliances on when they’re not in use increases the risk of overheating, short circuits, and electrical fires. Devices like irons, heaters, and hair straighteners are particularly dangerous if left unattended.
Prevent power surges and electrical damage – Electrical surges can occur unexpectedly, especially during storms or grid fluctuations. Unplugging appliances when not in use helps protect them from damage caused by sudden voltage spikes.
Saves energy and reduces bills – Did you know that many appliances consume phantom power (or standby power) even when turned off but still plugged in. Unplugging items like TVs, chargers, and kitchen gadgets can reduce unnecessary energy use and lower your electricity bill.
Extends the lifespan of your appliances - Constant power flow can wear out internal components of appliances over time, leading to a shorter lifespan. Switching them off when not in use reduces wear and tear, helping them last longer.
Test Your RCD (Residual Current Device) Regularly
A Residual Current Device (RCD) is a crucial safety feature in any home’s electrical system. It quickly shuts off power if it detects a fault, preventing electric shocks and reducing the risk of fires. However, like any safety device, it needs regular testing to ensure it functions properly.
How to Test Your RCD:
✔ Locate your consumer unit (fuse box) – The RCD is usually inside.
✔ Press the ‘Test’ button – This should immediately trip the switch, turning off the power.
✔ Reset the RCD – If it does not trip, or if it fails to reset, call a qualified electrician immediately.
At B&B Services Ltd, we provide expert inspections and maintenance services to ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and compliant. If you're unsure about the condiiton of your RCD, or would like a full electrical safety check, we are always happy to help.
Skip the DIY
Electrical work might seem like a tempting DIY project, but it’s one area where professional expertise is essential. Attempting electrical repairs or installations without proper training can be extremely dangerous and may lead to serious consequences.
Working with electricity without proper knowledge and training significantly increases the risk of electric shocks, which can cause severe injury or even be fatal. Not only that but it could lead to expensive repairs in the future and your home insurance policy will require electrical work to be carried out by a qualified professional.
If an electrical fire or damage occurs due to DIY work, your insurance provider may refuse to cover the costs.
In the UK, electrical work in homes must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations. Certain tasks, such as rewiring, installing new circuits, or working in kitchens and bathrooms, legally require a qualified electrician. Failing to comply with regulations could result in fines or issues when selling your home.
Use the Right Bulbs for Your Light Fixtures
Choosing the right light bulb for your fixtures isn’t just about brightness or energy efficiency—it’s also crucial for safety, performance, and longevity. Using the wrong type of bulb can lead to overheating, electrical issues, and even fire hazards.
How to Choose the Right Bulb:
✔️ Check the fixture’s wattage rating – Never exceed the maximum wattage stated on the fixture.
✔️ Choose the correct bulb type – LED, halogen, CFL, or incandescent, depending on what’s recommended.
✔️ Match the base type – Ensure the bulb’s base fits the socket properly.
✔️ Use dimmable bulbs where needed – Some fixtures require compatible dimmable bulbs to function correctly.
Be Mindful of Extension Leads
Extension leads are a convenient way to power multiple devices, but misusing them can create serious electrical hazards. Overloading sockets, using damaged leads, or relying on them as a permanent solution can increase the risk of fires, electric shocks, and power failures.
✔️ Check the power rating – Ensure the total wattage of plugged-in devices doesn’t exceed the lead’s capacity.
✔️ Use surge-protected leads for valuable electronics.
✔️ Never daisy-chain (connect multiple extension leads together) – This can overload circuits and cause overheating.
✔️ Unplug when not in use – Prevents overheating and fire risks.
✔️ Replace damaged leads immediately – Never use a frayed or cracked extension lead.
✔️ Consider adding more permanent sockets – If you frequently use extension leads, consult an electrician to install extra wall sockets.
If your home lacks enough power outlets, B&B Services Ltd can install safe, permanent solutions to reduce your reliance on extension leads.
Watch Out for Flickering Lights or Burning Smells
If you notice flickering lights, buzzing sounds, or burning smells near outlets or switches, this could indicate a wiring issue. Contact a qualified electrician immediately.
Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections
Electrical systems are essential for modern living, but they can become dangerous if not properly maintained. Regular electrical checks ensure that your home remains safe, efficient, and compliant with current regulations.
In the UK, electrical installations should comply with BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations). If you're planning to sell or rent your home, an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) may be required to prove that your system is safe.
If your home is over 25 years old, the wiring may not meet modern safety standards. Older properties may have outdated fuse boxes, aluminium wiring, or insufficient grounding, all of which require upgrading for safety.
How Often Should You Schedule an Electrical Check?
✔ Every 10 years for privately owned homes
✔ Every 5 years for rented properties
✔ Every 3 years if you have a swimming pool
✔ After major renovations or new appliance installations
Stay Safe with B&B Services Ltd
At B&B Services Ltd, we provide expert electrical services, from full rewires to minor repairs, across Newent and Gloucestershire. If you're concerned about your home's electrical safety, get in touch with our experienced team today!
📞 Contact us today for professional electrical services and peace of mind.
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