Fire safety

Furniture and electrical equipment

FurnitureA fire resistant label

When buying or replacing furniture such as sofas and chairs, make sure they contain fire-retardant foam rather than polyurethane foam. You should be able to see this from the label. 

Electrical equipment Electrical - Do not overload electrical sockets and switch them off when not in use

Faulty electrical appliances cause over 3,500 fires in the home every year. Further information including facts and figures can be found on the GOV.UK website.

If you’re concerned about the safety of a product, stop using it and tell the retailer, manufacturer or your local Trading Standards office.

Tips for keeping safe

European safety mark for electricals

  • make sure all electrical appliances have a British or European safety mark and are kept clean and in good working order 
  • buy from trustworthy sources - if you have bought second hand appliances have them checked by a qualified electrician before using them
  • if you own your own tumble dryer, ensure you empty fluff (lint filter) regularly in line with the manufacturer’s instructions, cleaning the extractor using a brush or gentle vacuuming
  • do not leave handheld heated appliances such as curling tongs, hairdryers and straighteners plugged in after use and leave them to cool on a heatproof surface
PlugsPlugs - Turn off appliance plugs when not in use
  • keep to one plug per socket - high-powered appliances such as washing machines, should have a single socket to themselves
  • plugs should fit tightly into sockets
  • plug casing should be free from cracks
  • watch out for burn marks or signs of overheating
  • the cable should be firmly secured in the plug
  • none of the pins should be bent
  • when using a new electrical item for the first time the cardboard label on the bottom of the plug should be removed
  • plugs shouldn't rattle
Leads
  • leads should be free from cuts, fraying and damage
  • do not use 2 or 3 way adaptors
  • if you're using an extension lead, make sure it's fully uncoiled and not overloaded and do not plug one extension lead into another extension lead
Sockets
  • sockets should be free from cracks or other damage
  • check them for burn marks and signs of overheating
  • make sure they're properly secured to the wall
  • make sure the switch works properly
Lighting
  • check that your light fittings or lamp holders are not visibly damaged, scorched or corroded
  • check downlighters and their surroundings for signs of overheating such as curled labels and discolouration or scorching