Warning over faulty electrical appliances

FIREFIGHTERS in Warrington are supporting a national campaign to combat accidental house fires caused by faulty electrical appliances.
They are emphasising the importance of using electrical items safely as they go about their work, in a bid to help raise awareness with residents.
They will also be pointing out such dangers as overloaded sockets and damaged and frayed leads.
Keith Brooks, head of Fire Prevention at Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service
said: “Firefighters have attended a number of house fires recently involving electrical goods, which could all have been prevented.
“Using phone and e-cigarette chargers correctly and making sure that they are only charged with the chargers they were purchased with will decrease the risk of a fire in your home. Also don’t leave these gadgets charging for long periods and make sure that hair straighteners are turned off after use.
“If you are using laptops, don’t put them on soft furnishings, beds and duvets as this increases the chance of them overheating and catching fire.”
If fire breaks out in the home, the fire service advice is: “Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999. Never use water on an electrical fire and don’t take any risks with your safety. Pull the plug out or switch the power off if it is safe to do so – then get out.”