Here are some simple steps that you can take to reduce the risk of electrical fires in your home.
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Make sure that plug sockets are not overloaded – if too many appliances draw power from one socket, it can overheat and catch fire.
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Never leave washing machines or dishwashers running when you are out of the house or asleep.
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Don’t plug a mobile phone in to charge and then forget about it.
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Check that plugs, sockets, lights and cables are not damaged or displaying burn marks.
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Don’t leave a portable heater unattended when excitable pets are running around the house!
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Don’t leave cables trailing – as well as being a trip hazard, they might be too good to resist for a pet looking for something to chew on.
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Don’t store anything that could easily catch fire on top of the microwave or near your fuse box or electricity meter.