A Senior Fire Safety Officer is appealing to residents to take some simple steps to reduce the risk of a fire in their home as part of national Home Safety Week (1^st – 8^th October).

Kevin Roberts, Senior Fire Safety Manager for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We attend a substantial number of electrical fires each year and would recommend that householders register their electrical appliances. Registering is a wise safety precaution as in a very small number of cases, manufacturers may identify problems with an appliance once the product has been in use for some time and they need to get in contact to get the fault corrected as quickly as possible.

“Registering can also save money through gaining an extended warranty or guarantee period. Thousands of people are missing out on product safety warnings, because they haven't registered their white goods including fridges, freezers and washing machines.

“When using appliances such as dishwashers, tumble dryers, cookers and washers make sure they are used correctly according to instructions. This includes not leaving them running overnight or when the house is empty, if they are not designed for this purpose.  Always switch off appliances, like televisions, at the plug before you go to bed.”

For more information about registering appliances, visit www.registermyappliance.org.uk and for more information regarding staying safe in the home visit www.nwales-fireservice.org.uk

You can also check if any of your electrical goods have been recalled by visiting http://www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk/

Electrical appliances - maintenance and safety

Advice to help keep you safe in your home:

• Switch off appliances at the plug, where possible, before you go to bed.
• Do not leave appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines running over night or when the house is empty.
• If you have a recalled appliance or an appliance subject to a repair order – do not risk it - stop using it.
• Poor installation (this can be as simple as a heavy appliance sitting on a power lead) and poor maintenance (this can be as simple as not defrosting a freezer) can increase the risk of a fire.
• Inappropriate installation can also include appliances installed in outbuildings such as garages and sheds where an ambient temperature cannot be maintained.
• Good housekeeping can prolong the life of an appliance and reduce the risk of fire (for example, cleaning ovens or filters, etc).
• Do not keep using appliances if they start to make unusual noises, smells or do not operate properly. Have them checked by a professional.