Safety during operation of power grids and electrical equipment

In the ranking of fire causes that occurred over seven months of 2024 in the Vitebsk region, 1st place was taken by violation of the rules for the installation and operation of electrical networks and electrical equipment – an increase of (compared to the same period in 2022) by 11.4% (from 149 to 166 cases);

The Ministry of Emergency Situations reminds of the basic fire safety requirements for the operation of electrical networks and electrical equipment:

- before operating electrical appliances, carefully study the operating instructions and strictly follow them;

- use only serviceable electrical appliances;

- do not overload electrical networks and overheat electrical appliances;

- after using an electrical appliance, disconnect it from the power supply. Do not leave charging mobile phones and other gadgets and devices plugged in unattended;

- install heating appliances on non-combustible bases or stands;

- install protective devices of factory production only.

If an electrical appliance catches fire:

- quickly de-energize the electrical appliance (unplug it or completely cut off power to the room);

- cover the electrical appliance with a dense, heavy cloth to stop oxygen supply;

- if you cannot extinguish the fire yourself and the flames have spread beyond the appliance's casing – report the fire by calling 101 or 112 and immediately leave the premises;

- remember that the smoke emitted during the burning of an electrical appliance is very toxic – protect your respiratory organs with a scarf or sleeve;

- when leaving, close windows and doors tightly to prevent the spread of fire;

- notify neighbors.