Switches, leads and power points
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Follow these simple tips for using and maintaining electrical switches, leads and power points and making your home safe:
Switches, power points and power boards
- Do not overload power points or power boards by “piggy backing” plugs into one socket or by using double adaptors – all power boards have maximum current ratings. Arrange for an additional power point to be installed by a licensed electrical professional
- Do not allow children to play with power points or switches
- Insert safety plugs in unused power point sockets – to prevent accidental contact
- Ensure electrical cords are not hanging from benches where children can grab them
- Do not plug high wattage appliances (such as heaters) into power boards – they may overheat the circuit wiring through overload and cause a fire
- Place power boards in ventilated areas and keep them free of dust and dirt – if there is a build up of dirt, moisture, grease or oil on or around power points and switches, have them tested by a licensed electrical professional
- Do not spray household cleaners, detergents or insecticides on switches and power points
- Do not wipe power points or switches with a wet cloth
Extension leads
- Use extension leads only as a temporary measure
- Extension leads should have plugs with three metal cores (pins) – plugs with two cores are not earthed, are dangerous and should only be used with double insulated electrical equipment
- Place extension leads carefully around furniture preferably securely taped to the floor, or along wall edges
- Do not place extension leads near heaters and cookers
- Do not connect a piggyback plug to the end of an extension lead to make it longer – the pins will be live, and therefore extremely dangerous
- Do not attempt to repair electrical leads yourself, and never join them by twisting or taping
- Extension leads that are damaged, frayed or have exposed inner wires should be thrown away or repaired only by licensed electricity professional Do not make up a long extension lead from a series of shorter ones
- If using extension leads outdoors check them regularly for signs of damage or age
- Never place extension leads under carpet or rugs as they may overheat
- Fully extend leads on reels when in use