We all know what to do in the case of a fire, particularly in the workplace, but what about the steps we can take to prevent one? There are certain things that all of us are guilty of that increase the risk of a fire in the office or at home, and here we have listed 5 of them- including steps you can take to lower the possibility of one breaking out.

Blocked Tumble Dryer

Occasionally in the news a story will appear about tumble dryers that have caught on fire, and unfortunately without proper maintenance this is a very real risk. If you have a tumble dryer, it is essential that you clean all the lint filters every time you use the machine. Failing to do so will allow fluff and lint to build up inside the air distribution system, and if it reaches the heater it will start to burn. As well as cleaning the filters, remember to use a damp cloth to wipe the drum. By taking good care of your dryer, you will prolong its life as well as reducing your risk of a fire.

Overloading Adaptor Plugs

Electrical overloading is one of the easiest ways you can accidentally start a fire, whether in the office or at home. Electrical overloading means a larger electric current is passing through a conductor, causing excessive heat and increasing the risk of igniting. Luckily, there are some very simple ways you can lower your risk of overloading.

Firstly, invest in a bar adaptor on a lead instead of a block adaptor- block adaptors can sometimes come away from the socket because of the weight of the plugs. In addition, you should never use more than one adaptor per socket, and never plug adaptors into adaptors! Simple precautions like these are all it takes to lower your risk of sparking a fire.

Leaving an Electrical Appliance Unattended

Millions of us use electrical appliances like hair dryers and hair straighteners every day, but how many of us have been guilty of leaving it plugged in an unattended? I bet it has happened more times than you would like to admit! Other electrical appliances commonly left on include smart phone chargers and tablet chargers. Rather than take the risk, make sure you turn all electrical appliances off when you are away from your desk or your home. And if you are using hot equipment like hair irons, make sure you place them on a heat mat to cool down rather than a flammable surface.

Not Cleaning Behind your Fridge

This one may surprise you, but did you know that not cleaning behind your fridge could be a potential fire hazard? Dust bunnies behind the fridge can block the air vents, causing it to overheat, overwork and potentially catch fire. Similarly, a major build up of dust and grime underneath the fridge can also become a fire hazard if left too long. Regardless of whether your fridge is situated in your office or your home, take time every few months to dust behind it, clean the coils, and use a duster or a broom to wipe underneath- you will be grateful in the long-run.

Failing to get a PAT Test

Now this one may only apply to businesses, but nonetheless it is a very important part of keeping safe from fire. Regular PAT testing (or Portable Appliance Testing) is a legal requirement for any employer, and it involves checking the safety of every piece of equipment in the workplace with a plug. This should be carried out by a qualified PAT tester, who will carry out visual and manual inspections to ensure the appliance is safe to use and in full working order. PAT testing may not be glamorous, but without it your employees could be at risk of fire.

About the Author

Chloe writes about electrical testing for PHS Compliance, part of the PHS Group, and she has a personal interest in health and safety.