ELECTRICS & WATER

Always make sure liquids are away from any electrical appliance, cables and plugs must never get wet.

ELECTRICITY AWARENESS

We generally take for granted how much electric appliances play a part throughout our homes. The average household wastes money every year by leaving appliances on standby such as televisions, videos, stereos, computers and cordless phones. Where possible you can cut down on wasted energy by leaving appliances on standby, but don't forget to check the user manual first.

Turn off the lights when you leave a room and adjust your curtains or blinds to let in as much light as possible during the day. When the days are shorter you'll be relying more on your lights, so why not replace your ordinary light bulbs for energy saving ones. Energy efficient light bulbs last 12 times longer and for each bulb you fit, there will be a real saving on your annual electricity bill.

WIRING, PLUGS & FUSES

Follow instructions and always wire plugs with care. Coloured wires should never protrude out a plug as it leaves exposure for water and debris to get inside, it also leaves the possibility of leads being pulled loose. If you need to change a fuse, double check that you use a correct replacement. Make sure you throw away any damaged cables and never run an electrical cable under a carpet or mat.

SOCKET OVERLOADING

Avoid overloading by making sure not too many appliances are plugged into adaptor sockets as this could lead to overheating.

BEFORE BED SAFETY ROUTINE

Many fires in the home start at night, so keep your family save with a bedtime safety routine:

• Switch off portable heaters and make sure doors are closed to all rooms. Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on. If a member of the family smokes, before emptying ashtrays make, sure the contents are cold. Never smoke in bed, and check there are no cigarettes or pipes are still alight. If there was an emergency, make sure your have your own escape plan.

FIRE ALARM

A correctly installed and working smoke alarms can provide vital early warning, allowing you and your family those valuable extra minutes to vacate the home. Make sure it conforms to BS 5446 and carries the Kitemark and test the smoke alarm monthly.

DANGEROUS WIRING WARNING SIGNS

Ask a qualified electrician to check your wiring, if you see any of these warning signs:

• Fuses that blow for no obvious reason Hot plugs and sockets Flickering Lights Brown scorch marks on sockets and plugs.