It's important to ensure safety is always a priority inside the home.
Appliances and electrical fittings
-
Switch off the power before plugging or unplugging appliances, and hold the plug, not the cord.
-
Always switch off appliances before cleaning them.
-
Never stick a knife into a toaster to release stuck toast.
-
Electric blankets spend much of their lives in storage and can be easily damaged. Always store them flat and check carefully before use. If there are signs of misuse or damage, have it checked by a licensed electrical contractor.
-
Never piggyback double adapters. If you need extra power points, have a licensed electrical contractor install additional outlets, or use a powerboard.
-
Always check for concealed electrical cables before drilling into walls, floors and ceilings. Be particularly careful when drilling around power points and light switches.
Maintenance
-
Test your safety switch every 3 months.
-
Install smoke detectors and test them regularly.
-
Wear appropriate clothing for the job being done e.g. safety glasses, ear plugs.
-
Do regular safety checks to ensure your appliances and electrical fittings are safe.
-
Replace damaged power points and frayed, perished or damaged cords.
Don't do it yourself
-
If you are a home handy person, draw the line at electrical jobs. Doing your own electrical work isn’t only dangerous, it’s illegal.
-
Always use a licensed electrical contractor.
-
Always buy ready-made leads and extension cords – never make them yourself at home.
Water and electricity
Water and electricity don't mix. Indoors, the bathroom and laundry are particularly dangerous because water is a conductor of electricity. An electric shock can be more serious if you have bare feet and wet skin. So, always remember:
-
Never touch electrical appliances or switches with wet hands.
-
Check appliances are a safe distance from water.
-
Never leave a hair dryer or shaver plugged into a power point – it could fall into the bath or basin.
Electric shock
- Never touch a cord, power point or appliance that has caused a shock. Prevent anyone from using it and have it checked and repaired by a licensed electrical contractor.
- If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or water taps, call us immediately on 13 16 70, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. And call your licensed electrical contractor to check your wiring immediately.
- Never touch or attempt to rescue someone who is receiving an electric shock - you may end up receiving a shock yourself. If possible turn off the power. Stay well clear and call Triple Zero (000).
Other important safety tips
- Keep emergency numbers close to your telephone in case you need them quickly.
- Remember to test smoke detectors regularly and replace the batteries each year.
- Keep a safe distance around heaters, especially those with naked flames or exposed heat coils like radiators. Many house fires have been started by portable heaters placed too close to flammable articles such as clothes and children's toys. Be especially careful of children around heaters.
