Fire Service Urges Islanders To Avoid Black Friday Shocks With Electrical Deals

Are you hitting the high street this Black Friday, or perhaps surfing the web for bargains on Cyber Monday?

This winter we are urging people across Hampshire and Isle of Wight to ensure they check that the electrical presents and devices they purchase, are certified, well-maintained and used safely.

Check that the presents and devices you are buying and bringing into your home are safe for you and your loved ones to use.

HIWFRS Assistant Director for Community Safety, Jason Avery, said:

“We know that this Black Friday and over the festive period, people across Hampshire and Isle of Wight will be hitting the high streets and browsing online for those Christmas present bargains.

“Of course this includes popular products such as e-scooters and other lithium-ion battery devices.

"We ask that when purchasing these items you ensure that they meet UK Safety Standards, and that you know how to maintain and use them safely, by following our electrical charging guidance."

Advice issued by HIWFRS includes:

• Research the product before purchasing, ensuring you are buying from a reliable and reputable brand
• Check that the battery and charger meet UK safety standards
• Charge your e-scooter battery in an area which doesn’t block your exit – store them in a shed or garage
• Keep an eye out for product recalls or warning signs the product may be damaged or the battery failing and becoming a fire risk
• Safe battery disposal
• Last year there were more than 700 fires in waste lorries or at recycling centres across the UK, caused by damaged batteries which had been carelessly discarded.