BFB advises caution when dealing with electrical installations
Electricity is still considered a common cause of fire. In the last ten years, around 3,000 fires a year occurred in which electricity was the cause. According to the Fire Prevention Advisory Board (BFB), these caused damage of 75 million Swiss francs per year.
Defects in electrical installations are not always immediately recognizable. However, repairs should never be tackled on one's own, as the Fire Prevention Advisory Board (BFB) warns. Last year alone, building damage averaged 75 million Swiss francs per year.
Retrofitting via RCD switch
Technical defects can also flow or overheat outside the lines. This can cause objects to become live unnoticed - with serious consequences. To prevent fires and accidents, outdated installations should be retrofitted with an RCD. This interrupts the power supply as soon as a fault occurs. If the circuit breaker trips repeatedly, it is a sign that something is wrong. In that case, you should contact your electrician, according to the BFB.
Attention with multiple sockets and too many devices
Older properties in particular do not always have enough power outlets. Multiple plugs and power strips can provide a remedy. However, there is a risk of plugging too many devices into a single socket.
In this case, the heavy load can lead to an overload of the multiple plug or the power strip, but also of the socket itself. This will cause the fuse to blow. In addition, if the maximum load is sustained over a long period of time, the insulation material can heat up and become brittle. The BFB warns: Frequent use of multiple plugs or power strips can also cause the contacts to become loose. As a result, the current is no longer transmitted properly. This leads to heating, which is a significant fire hazard.
Source: Association of Cantonal Building Insurers VKG
