Preventing Electrical Fires in London Homes: Essential Safety Tips from RCD Electrical
Electrical fires, often caused by faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, pose one of the most serious threats to UK households. Unlike gas leaks or other hazards, electrical problems are often hidden—occurring behind walls, within sockets, or inside old appliances—until they suddenly result in sparks, smoke, or devastating fires.
In London, especially in North London’s older housing stock, these risks are higher due to outdated wiring and the growing demand for modern appliances. The good news is that proactive electrical safety measures can drastically reduce the likelihood of an electrical fire.
At RCD Electrical, we specialise in protecting homes across London with inspections, fault-finding, rewiring, and 24/7 emergency call-outs. This article highlights the key steps every homeowner should follow to safeguard their property and loved ones.
Why Electrical Fires Are a Growing Concern in London
According to research by Electrical Safety First, more than half of accidental house fires in the UK are caused by electricity. In London:
-
Overloaded circuits are common due to the demand for chargers, kitchen gadgets, and home office equipment.
-
Faulty wiring is widespread in Victorian and Edwardian homes that haven’t been rewired in decades.
-
Improper appliance use—such as using heaters near flammable items—continues to cause preventable accidents.
For North London homeowners, where many properties are over 80 years old, professional inspections and maintenance are vital.
10 Proven Steps to Prevent Electrical Fires
1. Regular Electrical Inspections
Scheduling Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) every 5–10 years is the first line of defence. For rental properties, inspections are required every 5 years by law.
At RCD Electrical, our certified electricians carry out detailed inspections, testing wiring, fuses, consumer units, and sockets to identify hidden faults before they escalate.
2. Inspect Appliances Frequently
Appliances are a common cause of fires, particularly those generating heat (kettles, toasters, irons, tumble dryers). Look for:
If you detect a problem, unplug the device immediately and have it tested or replaced.
3. Manage Outlets Responsibly
Sockets are not designed to handle multiple high-energy devices at once. To prevent overheating:
-
Avoid daisy-chaining extension leads.
-
Use surge-protected power strips for computers and TVs.
-
Spread devices across different outlets rather than relying on one.
If you find your home constantly short of sockets, RCD Electrical can safely install additional outlets.
4. Unplug Heat-Generating Devices
Appliances like irons, hair straighteners, and portable heaters should always be unplugged after use. Even when switched off, they draw power and can overheat if a fault develops.
This not only reduces fire risks but also cuts down on unnecessary energy usage.
5. Use Correct Fuses and Light Bulbs
Installing a bulb with a higher wattage than recommended can cause a fixture to overheat. Similarly, incorrect fuses may fail to protect your circuit in case of overload.
Always:
-
Check fixture labels for correct bulb wattage.
-
Replace blown fuses with the exact same rating, never higher.
6. Keep Flammable Materials Clear
Placing fabrics such as curtains, bedding, or clothing too close to heaters, lamps, or extension cords creates a high fire risk.
7. Install and Maintain Smoke Detectors
Smoke alarms save lives. In the UK, it is a legal requirement for rented properties to have smoke alarms on every floor, but all homeowners should follow the same rule.
8. Use Extension Cords Safely
Extension cords are intended for temporary use only. Over time, wear and tear can lead to sparks or overheating.
Safety guidelines:
-
Never run cords under carpets, rugs, or furniture.
-
Avoid using them for high-power appliances like heaters or microwaves.
-
Replace damaged or excessively long cords.
If your home needs more permanent power points, RCD Electrical can install additional sockets safely and compliantly.
9. Childproof Electrical Outlets
For families with young children, simple safety additions like socket covers and cord tidies prevent curious hands from tampering with electricity.
Educating children about electrical dangers early is equally important.
10. Register Appliances for Recall Alerts
Manufacturers often recall faulty appliances that present fire risks. By registering your appliances online, you will be alerted to recalls and can arrange repairs or replacements.
This is a free step that could prevent serious incidents.
What to Do If an Electrical Fire Starts
If, despite precautions, an electrical fire occurs:
-
Do not use water to extinguish flames—it can cause electrocution.
-
Use a Class C (electrical) fire extinguisher.
-
If the fire is spreading, evacuate immediately and call 999.
Once safe, contact RCD Electrical’s 24/7 emergency team for urgent repairs and system checks before using electricity again.
Why Choose RCD Electrical in North London?
Electrical safety is not just about prevention—it’s also about quick, professional response when something goes wrong. At RCD Electrical, we provide:
-
24/7 emergency call-outs across London
-
Full and partial rewiring for older homes
-
Consumer unit upgrades with RCD protection
-
EICR inspections for homeowners and landlords
-
Expert fault-finding and rapid repairs
With fully certified, insured electricians and a strong reputation for reliability, we are the trusted choice for North London emergency electricians.
Final Thoughts
Electrical fires are a very real danger in London homes, but most can be prevented with proper care, regular inspections, and safe usage habits. By following these essential tips and relying on professional services from RCD Electrical, you can keep your property, family, and possessions safe.
Don’t wait until a small fault becomes a major hazard—take proactive steps today.