John Wright Electrical & Mechanical Services Ltd understand the importance of maintaining electrical safety. For those of us installing electrical equipment day in, day out, we must adhere to strict health and safety guidelines to ensure our safety and the safety of those around us. However, for those not equipped with our extensive knowledge and experience, promoting your own in-house and at-work electrical safety might not be at the forefront of your mind.

Each year, Electrical Safety First works with the Home Office to promote electrical safety in the home and workplace, to prevent electrical fires from being started. Scarily, over 50% of all accidental house fires are caused by electricity and 9/10 electrical fires are caused by an electrical device. It's important that the general public know what to look out for and what to do to bring these statistics down and keep everyone safe.To celebrate Electrical Safety Week, between 18-24 November, we're doing our bit to raise awareness. With Christmas fast approaching, we've compiled 5 top tips to keep you and your family safe during the festive period and throughout the year.

1. Don't overload an extension cord – it can cause damage to your home or workplace's electrical system and cause a fire
2. Make sure your wires are out of access for your pets – damaged wires from animal bites are incredibly dangerous!
3. Keep all electrical items from water – most fires happen by accident when people use electricity near water
4. Avoid counterfeit goods, especially phone chargers and cooking equipment – they can lead to short circuits and even fires
5. Don't leave electrical appliances running unattended – don't leave the house with washing machines and dishwashers running

We hope that you take on board this advice and pass on our electrical safety tips to friends and family to keep everyone safe at this busy time of year.