Electrical fire safety in the home

It’s important to make fire safety a top priority in your home, including being aware of the dangers of electrical fires. Electrical fires often start in the kitchen, so be extra careful when using cooking appliances and never leave cooking unattended. You can get fire safety hints and tips on nidirect.

Electrical fire safety advice

To try and avoid a fire starting in your house:

• don’t overload plug sockets
• regularly check for worn or frayed wires
• unplug appliances when not in use
• keep appliances clean and in good working order
• check for British or European safety mark
• always check that you use the right fuse to prevent overheating
• ensure electric blankets are safe for use and unplug before you go to bed
• heaters should be kept clear from curtains and furniture and should never be used for drying clothes
• only use professional tradesmen to repair faulty electrical appliances or wiring

You can find out more about fire safety at the following nidirect pages:

• Fire safety in the home (leisure, home and community section)
• Fire prevention (leisure, home and community section)

If a fire starts

Never use water on an electrical fire - pull out the plug or switch the power off if it’s safe to do so. If a fire starts:

• get out
• stay out
• call 999

Smoke alarm and escape route

Make sure you have a working smoke alarm fitted. Check it is working this week and get into the habit of checking it every week.

Also, make sure you have a fire escape plan and that everyone in the household knows how to escape safely in the event of a fire.

More useful links

• Escaping and recovering from a fire (leisure, home and community section)
• Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (leisure, home and community section)
• Find your local fire and rescue service (do it online section)
• Support and safety in your home (leisure, home and community section)
• Fire safety - Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service website