Electrical safety
Keep water containers away from electrical appliances
Never place cups, vases, basins, or wet items on or beside appliances, and keep appliances away from windows, balconies, and splash areas.
Why it matters
Water entering an energised appliance can cause electric shock, short circuit, or fire; internal moisture may remain even when the case looks dry.
Wrong action
Putting a drink on a TV, extension unit, or appliance, or washing and keeping a basin beside powered equipment.
Correct action
Give drinks and cleaning water a fixed place away from appliances and keep the appliance area dry before use.
What to do
- Remove every water container from above and beside appliances.
- Keep appliances away from windows, balconies, sinks, and splash areas.
- After a splash, do not touch or start the appliance; tell the employer and arrange a safe check.
If something happens
If an appliance gets wet or someone receives a shock, do not touch the appliance or person. Switch off power only if safe and call 999 immediately.
Sources and review
- Electrical and Mechanical Services Department — Safety Tips for Buying and Using Electrical Appliances
Source checked: 2026-08-20
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.
Related safety lessons
Critical safety ruleElectrical safety
Never touch plugs or sockets with wet hands
Dry your hands first before plugging in, unplugging, or using a switch.
View safety lesson →
Critical safety ruleElectrical safety
Stop using damaged electrical cords
If a cord, plug, or casing is damaged, loose, discoloured, or charred, stop using it and have it checked by an experienced technician.
View safety lesson →
Critical safety ruleElectrical safety
Keep extension cords out of walkways and pinch points
Do not run extension cords across walkways, through doors, under rugs or furniture, or where wheels, heavy items, or doors can crush them.
View safety lesson →