WARNING GIVEN ON ELECTRICAL FAULTS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29435, 10 February 1961, Page 12

WARNING GIVEN ON ELECTRICAL FAULTS

“The slightest shock from an electric installation or appliance is your warning that something is wrong with it,” says a pamphlet on "electrical don’ts” issued by the National Safety Association. “Don’t ignore it—call your electrician or electric supply authority at once.

“Keep you eye on your main earth wire. It is usually connected to water-pipe or a metal rod driven into the ground. If the wire is damaged or disconnected, have it repaired at once. If in doubt, consult your electrican or supply authority. “A radio aerial that has blown down can be dangerous Don't touch it before making sure that it is not near any power wire, and that the radio set to which the aerial is connected is disconnected from the power supply. Live radio aerials have caused fatal accidents.

"Many accidents, some fatal, have occurred to painters. Treat every wire as bare even though it may appear to be insulated. Your supply authority will be pleased to advise you regarding working near these wires.

"Electric blankets are a great comfort but an electrical fault often causes a fire. Unless they are waterproofed a fire can be caused by bed-wetting. Do not launder blankets unless you follow the manufacturers’ instructions Buy only blankets made to New Zealand standard specification. Don’t buy a second-hand blanket—ft may be in a dangerous condition. “For safety, remove the plug from the wall socket or turn off the switch before removing the connector from an appli-

ance. Makeshift repairs to frayed cords, prising open contacts, and meddling with electrical equipment lead to disaster. Leave electrical repairs to your electrician. “Lamp holders are safe to use for lamps—but not for power or heating appliances. Most appliances are fitted with a three-core flex for the purpose of earthing the exposed meta] of the appliance, and a three-pin plug must be used.

"An isolating transformer is essential for the safe use out-of-doors of any ordinary electrical appliance. Keep the connexion short between the transformer and the wall socket. For maximum safety connect one appliance only to the transformer at a time. Don't risk electrocution —use an isolating transformer, or other approved safeguard.”