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Electrical safety

Keep appliance ventilation spaces clear

Leave the space required by the manual and never cover air inlets or outlets.

Standard safety rule

Last reviewed: 2026-10-12

Unsafe example on the left: Covering an appliance with cloth or pushing boxes against ventilation openings.; correct example on the right: Leave the space required by the manual and never cover air inlets or outlets.

Why it matters

Blocked heat dissipation can overheat an appliance and cause damage or fire.

Wrong action

Unsafe: Covering an appliance with cloth or pushing boxes against ventilation openings.

Correct action

Leave the space required by the manual and never cover air inlets or outlets.

What to do

  1. Follow the manual, switch off first, and keep hands dry.
  2. Leave the space required by the manual and never cover air inlets or outlets.
  3. Check all vents before use and stop for abnormal heat or a burning smell. Afterward, recheck the plug, cord, and appliance body.

If something happens

For smoke, fire, or electric shock, keep clear, isolate power only if safe, and call 999. Do not touch a casualty while they may still be connected to electricity. Once power is safely isolated, follow dispatcher first aid; if unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR as instructed.

Sources and review

This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.

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