We all hear the stories on the news about house fires started by an electrical fault, especially in winters due to faulty heaters. It’s devastating and the LAST thing we want any of our clients to endure. We’ve revised 8 top tips for keeping your home safe for winter.
PROTECT ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
Your electrical equipment should be protected
- Implement power surge protection for power points and appliances
- Ensure that your outdoor electricals (pools, spas, lighting, pumps) are covered and away from hazardous chemicals and equipment.
FIREPLACES
They have chimney sweepers for a reason! We love an old school fireplace, there’s nothing quite like it on a cold winters’ eve! Even though in QLD, fireplaces aren’t the norm, they are still around and it’s important to be reminded.
- Have them cleaned prior to their annual use
- Soot and creosote can be dangerous and flammable
- Never dump hot ashes near your home, make sure they are in a safe metal container
- Don’t use gasoline or flammable liquids to start the fire
- Ensure the fireplace is always regulated and the house is aware of its surroundings
FURNACES AND PORTABLE HEATERS
- Ensure that your gas heaters have been serviced by a licensed electrician
- Faulty heaters have serious health issues, read more here
- Heaters shouldn’t be discolouring the walls, unexpectedly popping or banging, showing yellow or sooty flames.
- Ensure the home is heavily ventilated
- Clean your heaters to avoid potential flammable triggers
- Always turn your heaters off when leaving the room, home or going to sleep
- Don’t store gas within your property
- Ensure your heaters are stable and kept away from cabinets or flammable items
INSPECT WIRING FOR DAMAGE
- You should visually inspect wiring prior to using the appliance, especially if they have been in storage
- Wiring inspection should occur every 2 – 3 years by a qualified electrician
- Check fuse boxes for melted areas, over-heating, noises or sparks
- Ensure your power points are safe to use and look for signs of faulty wiring listed above
ELECTRICAL BLANKETS
- Avoid putting on bedding that can pinch wiring e.g. sofas, pull-out beds, adjustable beds
- Ensure the blanket is left flat and un-bunched
- Avoid heated bedding with infants or immobile personnel
- Follow care instructions carefully
- Avoid animals on heating blankets as their claws could puncture an element or wire
EXTENSION CORDS
- Do not put extension cords under rugs. This can be a major fire hazard due to being trampled and overheated. The wiring and currents reduce transmission causing it to overwork, thus, overheating and can lead to fires.
Avoid using extension leads for prolonged periods, if you are using one; avoid plugging them into power boards
- Always keep them protected away from direct sunlight and water
- Avoid trying to repair damaged extension cords
- If the extension cord is overheating, it’s time to dispose.
SERVICE YOUR HVAC (HEATING, VENTILATION, AIR-CONDITIONING) UNITS
- Schedule regular cleans to avoid dust build-up and optimal functionality, these should be completed by trained professionals to ensure structural integrity and safety.
General Electrical Safety
ENSURE THE FOLLOWING POINTS ARE REVIEWED QUARTERLY:
- There’s a functioning/in-date electrical fire extinguisher close and that everyone knows its location
- Safety checks are up to date including surge protection and appliances
- Smoke alarms are working optimally (always check the batteries) and have been serviced
Electrical safety is vital for all homes!
