Electrical accidents in the home can pose a more significant risk to older or vulnerable people.

Electrical Safety First’s statistics show that one million people over 75 live in homes that are not warm enough, are in a state of disrepair or do not have modern facilities. These homes can be dangerous especially if they don’t meet basic electrical safety standards

If you’re worried about your property, or concerned about a neighbour or relative, here are some simple things that you can do:

• Check the fusebox

All fuseboxes should have a main switch and fuses and/or circuit breakers. It should NOT have a wooden back, cast iron switches or what looks like a mix of different fuseboxes. If your circuit-breakers trip or fuses regularly blow, then it’s worth getting them checked by a registered electrician

• Check for RCDs

An RCD (Residual Current Device) is a life-saving device that cuts out power if there’s an accident and can prevent you from receiving a fatal electric shock. To check whether you have an RCD press the ‘Test’ or ‘T’ button. If you do have one then pressing it will switch off the power to the areas of the home that it protects. If you don’t have an RCD in the fusebox or it’s not working then you should use plug-in RCDs for all the sockets in your home.

• Check the plugs and sockets for age/damage or potential faults
• Check the light fittings for discolouration, scorching or cracks
• Check the cables for damage and as trip hazards 
• Check and test the smoke alarms

 To read more about how to keep older relatives safe please check Electrical Safety First’s website – link 

 If you are unsure about an installation, need advice or assistance please contact PC Electricals. We also have more electrical safety tips on our website www.pcelectricals-dorset.co.uk Facebook or Twitter pages.