Residents urged to be vigilant with electrical appliances after Bank Holiday weekend incidents

Firefighters are urging people to be cautious when it comes to electrical devices and to regularly monitor appliances to minimise the risk of house fires, following five incidents across Great Manchester over the Bank Holiday weekend.

People are being advised to always keep an eye on chargers after two house fires in two days where devices overheated.

On Monday (27 May), fire crews attended a house fire in Urmston, caused by a laptop charger which overheated on a sofa when left unmonitored.

Crews were called to a similar incident on Sunday (May 26) where a vacuum cleaner was left on charge.

Fortunately, nobody was hurt at either incident, but both highlight just how dangerous an overheating charger can be when left unattended.

Firefighters are also calling for people to ensure they are being safe with domestic appliances such as tumble dryers and washing machines following three incidents at the weekend.

Damian O’Rourke, Head of Prevention at GMFRS said: “Thankfully, nobody was seriously injured in these incidents but it is a timely reminder of how dangerous electrical appliances can be when left unattended.

“There are many different precautions people can take to minimise the risk of an electrical appliance fire and they need to be monitored regularly.

“Just because there is no flame, does not mean there is no risk of fire.”

To minimise the risk of a fire you should:

• Switch off appliances at the socket when not in use and when you go out or go to bed, unless they are designed to be left on, like freezers.
• Be aware of what you are charging, where it is and how long it has been on charge
• Check you are not overloading plug sockets
• Do not use chargers or electrical items in areas of the home where they can easily heat up, for example under pillows, under bedding or sofas and cushions.  

Dealing with an electrical fire

If there is an electrical fire, pull the plug out, or switch off the power at the fuse box - if it is safe to do so. Sometimes this can stop the fire immediately.

Never use water on an electrical fire, and don't take any risks with your safety - get out, stay out and call 999.

Find out more on what to check for to ensure your appliances don't put you or your family or housemates at risk from fire:

• www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/staying-safe/what-we-do/fire-safety-at-home/electrical-equipment/