Working in the home and garden

To ensure the safe use of electricity in the home:

• Always turn the power off before working on any appliance - even when changing a light bulb.
• Never use electrical equipment that has a worn flex. Get the flex changed by a competent electrician before the equipment is used again.
• When using equipment outdoors, for instance DIY tools or lawnmowers, use a special safety switch known as an RCD (residual current device), specifically designed for the purpose.
• Don't use electrical equipment when it's raining or in areas that are being watered. The risk of electric shock is far higher in wet conditions, plus the ground may be slippery, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Always call in a competent electrician when work on the house wiring is needed.

Click here for householder advice on avoiding danger from electricity.