Awareness & Tips

Many people don't give much thought to how they use and handle cables, extension cords, and plugs—until something goes wrong and causes serious problems. A damaged cable, an overloaded power strip, or a faulty plug can lead to serious and dangerous electric shocks, devastating fires, or critical appliance failures. With simple and practical safety guidelines and good habits, you can significantly minimize these risks. This comprehensive guide provides concrete safety tips for electrical products in everyday life—practical and actionable for young and old, for anyone who wants to use electromagnetic devices safely and protect their family.

Visible inspection – your first line of safety

The first and most important step is a regular and thorough visual inspection of all cables in your home. Systematically look for damaged or detached insulation, visible cuts, or breaks. A damaged cable is a serious and immediate safety hazard. Replace damaged cables immediately—do not attempt to repair them temporarily with tape. This is an unsafe, makeshift solution and is dangerous. A new cable only costs a few euros—it's not worth taking the risk.

Thoroughly check all plugs. A loose or damaged plug should not be used. If a plug is not securely inserted into a socket or is loose, unplug it immediately and inspect it thoroughly. A deformed or burned plug is a sign of problems.

Store and use cables correctly

How you store and use cables is crucial for their longevity and safety. Do not coil cables too tightly – this damages the inner insulation over time and makes the cable brittle. Store cables in dry places, not in damp or hot areas. Extreme temperatures can damage and cause plastic insulation to deteriorate. Avoid running cables under heavy furniture or pinching them – this damages the insulation and is a tripping hazard.

Also, make sure that cables do not get wet in water or other liquids. A wet cable poses a significant risk of electric shock and must be removed immediately. If a cable gets wet, do not use it until it is completely dry. Unplug it immediately and let it dry for several days.

Using extension cords and extension cables correctly

Extension cords and extension cables are convenient, but must be used correctly and safely. An extension cord should be the same gauge (thickness) as the original device cable or even thicker. A thinner cable poses a significant fire hazard and should not be used. A long extension cord (50+ meters) could also cause voltage drop, resulting in reduced device performance. The optimal length for safe use is 5-10 meters.

Never use extension cords with high-power appliances such as kettles or hair dryers. These require a direct connection to the wall. An extension cord used with a high-power appliance can overheat dangerously and pose a fire hazard. The rule is: the higher the wattage, the more direct the connection to the wall.

Do not overload power strips

One of the most common safety hazards is the dangerous overloading of power strips. A kettle (2000W) + a hairdryer (1500W) + a lamp (60W) = 3560W. This is just under the 3680-watt limit. If you plug in another hairdryer, you will dangerously overload the power strip.Not all devices will work simultaneously, but always plan for worst-case and peak values.

A good strategy is to avoid using high-power appliances like kettles and hair dryers on the same power strip. Distribute the load across multiple power strips and different circuits. This is safer and prevents power outages.

Damp areas – Special care required

Damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens require special care and specialized safety measures. A residual current device (RCD) is absolutely essential in these areas. Ensure that the power strip or cable does not come into contact with water. A wet cable can cause a dangerous electric shock and is life-threatening. Use high-quality, waterproof sockets with an IP44 rating or better in damp areas.

Avoid using portable devices near water in bathrooms. Be especially careful with hair dryers, as they have high power. Ideally, such devices should be used in another room.

Protect children and pets

Children and pets can play with cables and plugs and injure themselves. Keep cables out of reach of children and pets. A child who chews on a cable can get an electric shock. A pet who pulls on a plug can injure itself. Use cable protection devices – special tubes or channels that protect and conceal cables.

Teach children early on that electricity is dangerous. A simple "This is dangerous, don't touch it" can save lives. Socket protectors are also important for toddlers.

Replace old and worn-out devices

Over time, cables and appliances inevitably wear out. An old cable with cracks in the insulation is a risk and should be replaced. Old electrical outlets may also be less safe. If an appliance is old, damaged, or malfunctioning, replace it. A new appliance costs little—it's not worth taking the safety risk.

A good sign that a cable needs replacing is if it smells of smoke or burning. This is a serious sign of overheating and it must be replaced immediately.

Inspections and professional help

Have your electrical installation inspected regularly by a qualified electrician – ideally every 5-10 years. An electrician can spot problems you might miss. This is especially important in older homes with older wiring. The cost of an inspection is low compared to the potential damage.

If you notice anything suspicious – sparks, smoke, smell – contact an electrician immediately. Don't gamble with potential safety risks.

Summary:

Using electrical products safely isn't complicated – it just requires awareness and good habits. Regularly check cables for damage. Store cables properly. Use extension cords correctly. Don't overload power strips. Take extra care in damp areas. Keep children and pets safe. Replace old or damaged appliances. Have professional inspections performed. By following these simple guidelines, you can significantly increase your family's safety and prevent accidents.