As the colder months roll in, we rely on electrical appliances more than ever—heaters, electric blankets, festive lights, and extra kitchen gadgets for all those winter warmers. But did you know that winter is also one of the riskiest times for electrical hazards in UK homes? With increased usage comes a higher risk of faults, fires, and accidents.
So, what are the biggest electrical dangers during winter, and how can you keep your home safe? Let’s find out.
1. Overloaded Sockets and Extension Leads
With extra heating, fairy lights, and multiple gadgets in use, it’s easy to overload sockets. Plugging too many devices into one outlet can cause overheating and even start a fire.
How to stay safe:
✔ Never plug multiple high-wattage appliances into one extension lead.
✔ Use surge protectors to safeguard against power surges.
✔ Check cables regularly for signs of wear or damage.
Quick Question: When was the last time you checked how many devices you had plugged into a single socket?
2. Unsafe Use of Electric Heaters
Portable electric heaters are a great way to stay warm, but they can also be a fire hazard if misused.
Common mistakes to avoid:
❌ Placing heaters too close to curtains, furniture, or bedding.
❌ Leaving them on overnight or unattended.
❌ Using damaged or old heaters with exposed wires.
What to do instead:
✔ Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable materials.
✔ Turn them off before going to bed or leaving the room.
✔ Check for frayed cords and replace old heaters when necessary.
3. Faulty Electric Blankets
There’s nothing better than getting into a warm bed on a freezing night, but faulty or old electric blankets can pose serious risks. Damaged wiring or misuse can lead to fires and electric shocks.
How to stay safe:
✔ Always check your electric blanket for signs of wear and tear before use.
✔ Never fold or crease the blanket when storing it, as this can damage the wires.
✔ Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the blanket.
If your blanket is over 10 years old, it’s time for a replacement. Not sure? Check the manufacturer’s guidelines or consider upgrading to a newer, safer model.
4. Fairy Lights and Outdoor Electricals
Twinkling lights make winter magical, but poor-quality or improperly installed fairy lights can be a major hazard. Outdoor electrics, such as garden lights, also need extra care in wet and icy conditions.
How to reduce the risk:
✔ Use only LED fairy lights, as they generate less heat and use less electricity.
✔ Never overload sockets with too many light strands.
✔ Ensure outdoor lights are IP-rated for weather resistance.
✔ Switch off lights before going to bed or leaving the house.
Looking for more advice on outdoor lighting safety? Check out our blog https://crannistech.co.uk/outdoor-lights-for-garden/
5. Power Cuts and Electrical Surges
Winter storms and freezing temperatures can sometimes cause power cuts or voltage surges, which may damage appliances or disrupt heating systems.
How to prepare for outages:
✔ Have a torch and battery-powered radio handy in case of a blackout.
✔ Use surge protectors to safeguard expensive electronics like TVs and computers.
✔ If your power keeps cutting out, it might be time for an electrical inspection.
Is your home’s wiring up to date? Crannis Technology Services Ltd can carry out a full Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to check for any hidden faults.
Stay Safe This Winter with Crannis Technology Services Ltd
Winter should be about staying cosy—not dealing with electrical hazards. Whether you need an inspection, help with outdoor lighting, or advice on safer electrics, Crannis Technology Services Ltd is here to help homeowners in Swindon and surrounding areas stay safe this season.
Need an Electrical Inspection?
Don’t wait until there’s a problem. Get in touch with Crannis Technology Services Ltd today and make sure your home is safe.
