Put Safety First This Winter

PUT SAFETY FIRST THIS WINTER Cords, Plugs & Switches Check the cords Before you plug in and switch on your heater or electric blanket, check the cords. If they are damaged, frayed or worn, have them repaired or replaced by a licensed electrician. Wall outlets Wall outlets can pose a danger to curious young children. Child-proofing your power outlets is as easy as a trip to your local hardware or electrical store. Avoid overloading Do not overload outlets by piggy-backing too many double adapters or power boards. Use a power board with a safety switch and only use one per wall outlet. Plugs When unplugging an appliance, never pull from the cord. Always turn them off at the switch and pull from the plug. Switches Power and light switches should only be EEERE wired and installed by a licensed electrician - even for minor jobs. Winter is an ideal time to test your safety, switch. Just press the "T" or "test" button in your meter box. Electric Blanket Safety Always read the safety and instruction manual. Replace electric blankets that are older than 10 years. Turn them off when not in use, and before sleeping. Do not wash with any chemicals. Electric Heater Safety Always read the safety and instruction manual. Do not use an extension cord, as it could overheat and cause a fire. Keep cords on top of rugs and not under furniture. Anything placed on the cord could damage it. Keep combustible and flammable materials away from your heater. Do not block your heater's air intake or exhaust. Do not leave unattended while turned on, and don't leave children unattended near heaters. Never use portable heaters in bathrooms, damp or wet areas. Appliances in Wet Areas Three safety steps to minimise the risk of electric shock in wet areas: Always wear rubber soled shoes in areas with wet floors, or outside. Never touch an appliance with wet hands. Ensure appliances are kept away from water and splash risks, even when turned off. If you touch a tap, sink, shower, tub, or other water fitting, and get a tingle or shock, turn off the power at the mains if it is safe to do so, and call an electrician immediately. Bathroom Heating If you want to heat the bathroom, it is best that you have a fixed heater installed by an electrician. Ensure that heated towel rails are correctly installed so that the lowest heated rail is mounted high enough off the floor to be safe for young children. Clothes Dryer Safety Always read the safety and instruction manual. Tumble dryers can create conditions which cause fire when used unsafely. Clothes dryers need to be installed, maintained and used in compliance with the manufacturer's instructions. Regularly clean the lint filter, exhaust duct, vent and exterior of the Dryer. Call Today 0410 229 139 EVERESTELECTRICAL www.everestelectrical.com.au