Fire and rescue service supports electrical safety week 2011

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Authority logo

Hundreds of people were today warned about the dangers of overloading sockets or misusing electrical appliances after it was revealed that more than 200 house fires were caused in the last year alone.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service revealed the terrifying statistics in a bid to highlight issues around electrical safety as part of national Electrical Safety Week (January 24).

The service said crews from across the county attended 232 house fires in 2010 which originated from electrical appliances. Residents were also warned that across the UK in 2007, more than 40 people died in their home as a result of accidental electrical fires caused by things like overloading sockets or misusing appliances.

County Fire Officer and Chief Executive Steve McGuirk said: “A fire in your home is devastating, but many of these fires are preventable. It is really important that people make sure their appliances are in good working order and are used safely. The majority of electrical fires start in the kitchen so we would ask people to be extra careful in that area especially. ”

By following some simple steps, you can help to keep you and your loved ones safe from fire:

• Consider using a Residual Current Device (RCD – which is a device designed to protect against electric shocks and reduces the risk of electrical fires)
• Keep electrical heaters clear of curtains and furniture - and never use them for drying clothes
• Always unplug your electric blanket before you get in bed - and stop using it if it looks frayed or worn
• Don’t overload plug sockets and make sure you are using the correct fuse for the appliance
• Regularly check leads and wires for fraying and signs of damage
• Wherever possible unplug appliances when not in use
• Make sure you have working smoke alarms fitted in your home – in the event of fire they could give you the vital seconds to escape
• In the event of a fire Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999

For more winter safety tips visit www.safe4winter.com or for a free Home Fire Risk Assessment call the free phone line on 0800 555 815.