Today marks the start of Electrical Fire Safety Week. This week aims to raise awareness of the risks electrical products bring to our lives, at home, at work and in public spaces. As well as raising awareness, this week looks to provide guidance and practical solutions that can be implemented in workplaces, and in homes to help reduce the risk of electrical fires. 

In the UK, over half of fires are caused in the home. Fires can be caused by a variety of reasons such as overloading sockets, improper/overuse of extension leads, leaving devices unattended when charging or using counterfeit or the wrong type of charger for devices, plus many others. It is also important to note that a lot of fires are caused using faulty devices/chargers, this is a risk that can be easily avoided. By routinely testing and maintaining electrical devices at least once a year, we can spot when a device is broken and needs replacing. Testing and maintenance of electrical devices should only be done by a qualified professional, as improper installation and maintenance can cause fires. 

The FIA emphasises the importance of maintaining electrical appliances to prevent dangerous situations. A crucial step is registering your appliances online, allowing manufacturers to notify you of any safety recalls or potential risks. This simple process can help prevent incidents before they occur. 

Electrical fire risks in the UK 

Here are some stats to paint a picture of the issue and to spark you into action to make your home and work life safer from electrical fire risks, helping keep you, your colleagues and loved ones safe: 

• There are over 20,000 electrical fires caused each year in UK homes 
• Nine out of 10 (89%) of electrical fires are caused by electrical products 
• Electrical fires cause 46 deaths per year, 2,469 injuries per year 
• Over £100 million in damage to private property and faulty appliances alone cause £41.6 million of damage, with electric cookers one of the largest contributors. 
• Faulty or misused electrical equipment is a leading cause of workplace fires, responsible for nearly a fifth of incidents. 

Devices that cause most electrical fires 

• Electric cooking equipment (cookers/microwaves etc) 
• Laundry appliances (washing machines, tumble dryers) 
• Electrical heating 
• Portable heaters 
• TV’s 

These devices account for almost 12,000 fires and 3,000 injuries each year. 

Staying Safe: A Shared Responsibility 

The FIA is committed to promoting electrical fire safety and ensuring that individuals, businesses, and organisations stay informed about potential hazards. Whether it’s registering your appliances, following safe charging practices, or disposing of electronics responsibly, these simple steps can save lives. 

Stay informed, stay safe, and spread the word during Electrical Fire Safety Week 2026. For more information on the practical steps, you can take to keep your home and workplace safe visit our LinkedIn and website. 

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