Ensure the safe use of electricity at home through careful use and maintenance of electrical appliances.
The electricity is to your home from your distribution system operator's electricity network via a connection cable to your home’s main electricity switchboard. The main switchboard contains the electricity meter, main switch, fuses and protective devices such as a residual-current circuit breaker. From the switch in the switchboard, you can switch off the power to the whole apartment for electrical work or fuse replacement.
A poorly maintained main electrical switchboard is a safety hazard and a fire risk. Ensure that the main electrical switchboard is freely accessible and kept tidy. Repair any broken parts immediately. The maintenance and care of the main switchboard is the responsibility of the customer.
For preparation, find out where the main switch, fuses and residual-current circuit breaker are located in your home.
Have your main electrical panel and faulty electrical appliances serviced by a professional, as DIY tune-ups are not safe. Also have other electrical work done in your home and building by a professional electrician.
Only buy CE-certified electrical appliances that are intended for use in the Finnish electricity network (230 V / 50 HZ). Make sure that appliances in your home have automatic power cut-off, for example coffee machines or cookers. Use only moisture-protected appliances outdoors and in damp areas.
Unplug electrical devices from wall sockets when the devices are not used. Use covers on wall sockets and extension cords. Make sure that your stove includes a stove lock and protector. Keep electrical devices out of the reach of children and remember to consider pets that may bite an electric wire. Teach your children the safe use of the electrical devices in your home from an early age.
Electricity is safe to use as long as you install and use electrical devices correctly. Most accidents are caused by a faulty or inadequately repaired device, carelessness or children playing. Minor electrical work, such as installing a light fitting with a sugar cube, can be done by ordinary electricity users if they know how to do it correctly and safely. Safe use also includes regular cleaning of household appliances, such as dusting, vacuuming the back of the fridge once a year and washing the grease filter on the cooker hood. Also make sure that appliances have adequate air circulation.
Get a fire alarm for every 60 dwelling square metres. Every month, check that the alarm’s batteries are charged and working. Do not dry laundry on the stove or electric radiators. Do not leave household appliances on unattended. Keep the fire blanket within easy reach.