If your white goods start making a strange noise, don’t ignore it – if you suspect there might be a problem, always unplug it and contact the manufacturer or a qualified repair technician.
It’s also important to regularly check if your appliances are part of a recall program.
Don’t forget to register your appliance as you’ll be informed if the manufacturers identify any issues with the product you have bought. Just go to www.registermyappliance.org.uk for more information.
Top tips
Clean filters and lint traps of washing machines and tumble dryers regularly
Don’t leave dishwashers, washing machines or tumble dryers running unattended overnight or when you leave your property for extended periods of time. Read more information on tumble dryer safety.
Follow the one plug, one socket rule to not overload electrical sockets. Use the ESF electrical calculator
Use the dedicated charger for mobile phones and other tech devices and don’t buy cheaper priced counterfeits. Download our Charge your Mobile Phone Safely leaflet and read more from Electrical Safety First on buying chargers.
For more advice and safety tips on protecting your home from electrical fires and accidents visit our safety and wellbeing at home page.
Electrical safety tips whilst spending more time at home * [from Electrical Safety First]
You’re probably spending a bit more time at home with your family at the moment. And this means you’re likely to be using more electrical items while you work and keep the children entertained. Read our tips to see how you can stay electrically safe whilst spending time together.
Charge your electrical devices on hard, flat surfaces
Make sure your family aren’t charging their devices and gadgets on beds, sofas or other soft surfaces. These can quickly overheat, increasing the risk of a fire.
Unplug chargers when you’ve finished using them
Don’t leave your devices charging for longer than necessary. It can damage the battery or the device could overheat and cause a fire.
Avoid overloading sockets
Just because an extension lead has multiple sockets, doesn’t mean they should all be used. Use this online calculator to find out what’s safe. The Socket Calculator has been brought to you by Electrical Safety First.
Be mindful of cables
Don’t try to fix any damage yourself (duct tape won’t do) and keep them tidied away so they’re not a trip hazard.
Keep your “desk” tidy
You’re probably working in a smaller space than you’re used to. Make sure you keep drinks away from your laptop and mobile – liquid and electricity don’t mix! Read more from Electrical Safety First on Safe Home Working.
Be careful if you’re using portable heaters to keep warm
Make sure flammable materials are kept away from them and don’t leave them switched on when you’re not around.
Keep a close eye on children’s use of electrical items
Not just screen time; ensure they’re charging correctly and following safe use guidelines.
Follow electrical safety advice when completing odd jobs
Now might seem like a good opportunity to undertake tasks you’ve been putting off – read these Garden Safety and Electrical DIY tips for more information.
Don’t get distracted in the kitchen
When you’re cooking, it can be easy to get distracted by family members, phone calls and emails—don’t leave things bubbling away on the hob or in the toaster. Read our guidance for more top tips on Cooking Safety.
Be careful when shopping online
If you’re watching your pennies and looking for an electrical bargain online, be aware of who you are buying from. Use ESF’s Check It Out tool to help learn the online risks.
Register your appliances
If you’re at home with some spare time, why not make sure that the electrical appliances in your home are registered so that if there’s a problem, the manufacturer can get in touch with you. Visit electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/registration to find out more.
