Very Impressed with the professional service. Explained clearly the process and any problems encountered.
Electrical fires remain one of the most common causes of house fires in the UK and many start from small issues that could have easily been prevented.
As an experienced local electrician working across Newton Abbot, Teignmouth, Bovey Tracey and Chudleigh, I’ve seen just how quickly poor wiring, overloaded sockets or neglected electrics can turn into a serious fire hazard.
Whether you're planning a new kitchen, upgrading your consumer unit, or simply want peace of mind here's what every homeowner should know.
Common Electrical Fire Risks in the Home
Overloaded sockets and extension leads It’s easy to plug in “just one more thing,” especially behind TVs or in the kitchen. But too many appliances can overload the circuit, causing overheating and potentially a fire.
Old wiring and fittings
If your home hasn’t had an electrical inspection in over 10 years, your wiring may no longer meet current safety standards especially in older properties.
Damaged or DIY wiring
Loose or exposed wires, poor cable terminations, and DIY connections are accidents waiting to happen. Even a poorly wired downlight can become a fire risk.
Lack of RCD protection
An RCD (residual current device) is a life-saving switch that cuts power instantly if something goes wrong. Homes without RCDs are at far greater risk.
What You Can Do To Stay Safe...
Book an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)
This is a full health check of your home’s electrics, recommended every 10 years for owneroccupied homes or 5 years if you rent the property out. It can catch potential problems before they become dangerous.
Check your consumer unit
If you’ve still got an old fuse board or your consumer unit doesn’t have RCDs, now’s the time to upgrade. Modern boards are safer, more reliable, and meet today’s regulations.
Don’t ignore warning signs
Buzzing sockets, burning smells, flickering lights, or circuit breakers that keep tripping are never normal they’re a sign something’s not right.
Be smart with plugs and appliances
Unplug appliances when not in use, especially high-powered ones like heaters or hairdryers. Don’t run appliances overnight unless they’re designed to do so safely.
If You Suspect an Electrical Fire...
- Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire — it could cause electrocution.
- If safe to do so, switch off power at the consumer unit.
- Use a dry powder fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires (if you have one and know how to use it).
- Get out, stay out, and call 999.
We’re Here to Help!
At A.M Electrics Devon Ltd, we’re committed to helping you keep your home safe, not just when something goes wrong, but by making sure it doesn’t happen in the first place. From EICRs and consumer unit upgrades to expert advice and simple checks while we’re working in your home, we’re always happy to help. And don’t forget, you can download free help sheets and guides directly from our website or read more helpful blogs anytime.
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