A couple of warnings about dangerous aspects of electrical equipment have been issued recently.
Plastic 13a socket "safety" inserts are dangerous
Many people use plastic 13A electrical socket inserts (sold as safety accessories) to prevent
small children poking things into a 13A socket outlet. In fact, these devices are inherently
dangerous and so should be withdrawn and responsibly disposed of. This is a known issue
but one that, has not been widely publicised until now, as can be seen from the Department
of Health’s Estates and Facilities Alert ref: EFA/2016/002.
The underlying issue is that UK socket outlets to BS1363 (the standard 13A ones that we all
have in our homes) employ an interlocking shutter system that prevents random objects
from being inserted. Socket covers are not constructed to any electrical or other safety
standard. The pins on the socket covers may be larger than the socket tubes which can
cause damage to the socket and defeat the safety design of BS 1363. In certain
circumstances the insertion of socket covers, or their breakage whilst in use, can allow
foreign objects to be inserted directly onto live parts within the socket, thus presenting a
high risk of electric shock.
Avoiding electrical fires: Advice from the London Fire Brigade
Many electrical fires can be avoided by following some simple actions:
- Don't use imitation electrical chargers as they may be unsafe. Look for a manufacturer's brand name or logo,model and batch number and check for a CE mark
- Keep electrical appliances clean and in good working order
- Unplug appliances and chargers when you are not using them or when you go to bed
- Always switch hair straighteners off and leave them to cool on a heatproof surface. Keep to one plug per socket. For plugs that do not come fitted to the appliance, always check you're using the right fuse. If you use an adaptor, use one that is fused. The adaptor or extension lead will have a limit of how much power it can safely provide so be careful not to overload sockets
Remember: scorch marks, flickering lights, hot plugs and sockets, fuses that blow or circuit?breakers that trip for no obvious reasons could be signs of loose or dangerous wiring.
The London Fire Brigade offers free home fire safety visits
If you are concerned that your home may be at risk of fire or know someone who you think needs LFB help, then please arrange a visit by contacting the Home Fire Safety Unit on Freephone 08000 28 44 28 or visit the London Fire Brigade Website and complete the online form at: hfsvwr.londonfire.gov.uk. Please quote "BARNET P1 10", when asked by the telephone operator or type it in the"additional information" box on the London Fire Brigades web page.
