If your electricity installation does not function properly, you run the risk of:

• power cuts (See also: 'What should I do if there is a power cut?')
• electrocution, when electricity rushes through the body
• short circuit owing to poorly insulated wires
• fire due to the overloading of electrical wires, short circuit or faulty plugs or sockets.

Have your installation fitted and regularly inspected by a specialist. You should also take a few precautions (to avoid electrocution, for instance) and do not hesitate to call your electrician if problems arise.

What precautions can you take

Abide by these basic rules for your own safety:

• Check your electrical installation

• Never repair a faulty fuse with a metal or copper wire.
• Preferably connect just one major household appliance to one circuit.
• Check that you have the right residual current switch.

• Check your plugs and sockets

• Replace faulty plugs and sockets.
• Use power strips.

• Take care of the wires

• Use copper wiring of the right diameter.
• Replace damaged wires immediately.

• Check your electrical appliances

• Are they earthed?
• Do you feel a tingling sensation when you pull out the plug? If so, tell an electrician.

• Beware of electrocution

• Never use an appliance with wet hands or feet.
• Never place electrical appliances near your bath or shower.

Professional fitting and inspection

Regular inspection by a specialist is advisable.

If you have doubts about the way an appliance or installation is working, it is best not to take any risks but to call your electrician straight away.