'You and your family are the most precious things in your home': Residents urged to check electrical safety as fire safety week begins
Lincolnshire residents are being urged to take simple steps to reduce the risk of electrical fires as Electrical Fire Safety Week gets under way.
Electrical faults remain one of the leading causes of accidental house fires in the UK, with thousands of incidents every year linked to overloaded sockets, overheating devices and unsafe appliances.
As the awareness week runs from February 2 to February 9, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to carry out basic checks at home that could make a significant difference to fire safety.
Advice includes checking smoke alarms weekly, avoiding overloading sockets, watching for frayed power leads and switching off and unplugging appliances when they are not in use, unless they are designed to remain on.
Residents are also advised never to charge devices overnight or place them under pillows or blankets, to keep appliances well maintained — such as removing fluff from tumble dryers or grease build-up from air fryers — and to dispose of batteries only at dedicated recycling points.
Appliance owners are also encouraged to register products so they can be contacted in the event of safety recalls or repairs.
Dan Moss, Area Manager for Protection and Prevention at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, said: “Electrical Fire Safety Week is a timely reminder that the appliances we use every day can pose a fire risk if they are not used properly.
“Simple steps like not leaving devices on charge overnight and making sure they are well ventilated so they don’t overheat really do make a difference.
"Registering appliances is also a quick and easy way to make sure potentially dangerous products are repaired or replaced.”
He said checking smoke alarms remained the most important step people could take.
“You and your family are the most precious things in your home. Smoke alarms provide that early warning — especially while you’re asleep — giving you time to get out, stay out and call 999,” he added.
Further advice on electrical safety is available through Electrical Safety First, while Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue also offers a free Online Home Fire Safety Check, providing personalised advice and an action plan to reduce fire risks.
With the half-term holiday approaching, the service is also reminding people to think about fire safety when travelling.
Mr Moss added: “Whether you’re staying on the east coast or heading further afield, it’s vital to check that your accommodation has working smoke alarms and that you know how to get out safely. In an emergency, an alarm and a clear escape route are your best protection.”