Every five years, we’ll send an electrician to check your home and make sure the electrical wiring is safe for you to use.
If they see anything that may cause concern, they will replace it while they are there.
Electricity is something we all rely on every day — but if it’s not used safely, it can cause fires, serious injury, or even death.
Using electricity safely
Electricity helps power our homes – from lights and fridges to phones and TVs but if it’s not used safely it can cause fires or serious injury.
Here’s how we can all stay safe at home.
- Use the right fuse for your appliance.
- Check plugs and cables — don’t use them if they’re damaged.
- Buy electrical items from trusted shops or websites.
- Stop using anything that feels hot or faulty.
- Turn off appliances when you’re not using them.
- Don’t dry clothes on heaters or cover air vents.
- Use one plug per socket where possible.
- Don’t use electrical items near water or with wet hands and never use water to put out an electrical fire – get everyone out and call 999.
If you notice anything unusual, like a burning smell, flickering lights, or a plug that feels hot unplug it straight away and contact Golden Lane Housing.
E-bike and E-scooter safety
More people are now using electric bikes and scooters, but this also brings a higher risk of fire in homes and buildings.
The good news is there are simple steps you can take to keep yourself, your neighbours, and your home safe.
Ebikes and e-scooters use lithium-ion batteries and can be very dangerous — Fires caused by the batteries burn extremely hot (up to 400°C) and can reignite quickly, even after being put out.
The Fire Service warn that these fires can be strong enough to melt metal. By charging and storing your e-bike or e-scooter safely, you can reduce the risk of a fire in your home.
Charging your battery safely
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Only use the charger that came with your e-bike or e-scooter.
- Charge your battery only when you’re awake and at home — never overnight or while you’re out.
- Don’t charge your bike or scooter if it’s been through deep water.
- Keep the charger and battery uncovered while charging so they don’t overheat.
- Keep your e-bike or e-scooter away from anything that could catch fire.
- If the battery feels hot after use, let it cool down before charging.
- Don’t overload sockets or use cheap or unsuitable extension leads.
- Unplug the charger once the battery is fully charged.
Storing your e-bike or e-scooter safely
Never store your e-bike or e-scooter in a communal area.
It could block your escape route or that of your neighbours in a fire.
If you can, keep it outside your home — for example, in a shed or garage.
Replacing or getting rid of a battery
Always check the manufacturer’s advice on how to dispose of old or damaged batteries.
If you think your battery might be faulty or unsafe, turn it off, unplug it, and stop using it.
If a battery catches fire, call 999 immediately.