Steve McCabe MP (Birmingham Selly Oak) has joined national charity Electrical Safety First to raise awareness of the dangers surrounding the purchase and use of discount chargers and other electrical products that although cheaper, can also be less safe to use.
Discount phone chargers often omit key components which can affect both the safety and functionality of the product. 1.8 million chargers are purchased online each year and Electrical Safety First’s own research found that 3 out of 5 fake electricals are purchased online, with a third of buyers experiencing major problems with the item.
Given that almost half of domestic fires in UK homes are caused by electricity, Steve is urging his constituents to be vigilant not only when purchasing chargers both online and in shops but also when purchasing other electrical items. Electrical Safety First’s website offers comprehensive advice about how to stay safe when using a wide range of electrical products including hair dryers, kettles and Christmas lights. Find our more here: www.electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk.
Steve said:
“As Christmas approaches, people will understandably be looking for bargains at this expensive time of year, but Electrical Safety First’s research makes it clear that shoppers need to be aware of the number of fake chargers available both in shops and online and the problems these can cause. The potentially devastating consequences of using a fake and faulty electrical product cannot be exaggerated and it just isn’t worth the risk. I hope that people will make sure that any electrical presents they buy are legitimate and safe products.”
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