Hemel Hempstead residents urged to lower the risk of accidental fires in their home

Hertfordshire Trading Standards has teamed up with Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service to remind residents of the importance of registering domestic appliances to help lower the risk of accidental fires.

Since the beginning of 2015, a total of 385 fires involving appliances in dwellings have been reported to Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service; 34 per cent of which were attributable to washing machines and/or tumble dryers and 10 per cent of which were caused by dishwashers.

Terry Hone, cabinet member for community safety, said: “Faulty white goods are one of the biggest causes of house fires, but fewer than half of us register for important safety warnings and we know that recalled models are still in use as a result. We’re asking residents to register their appliances with this government-backed scheme and take a few simple steps to reduce the risk of fire.”

Most brands have teamed up with The Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances (AMDEA) to provide a convenient portal for registration. Both new and second-hand appliances can be registered here.

If there’s a problem with a model you own, you’ll receive an email alert telling you what you need to do, whether it’s a safety repair a complete recall of the product.

Top tips for avoiding white goods fires:

*Don’t leave appliances running overnight or when you’re out of the house unless they’re designed to be left on all the time (such as fridges)

*Look after your appliance – build ups of dust, fluff or grease increase the likelihood of fire

*Don’t use damaged appliances – if they start to make odd noises or aren’t working properly stop using them and get them checked

*Always have a working smoke alarm on each level of your property and ensure you and your family have an escape plan in the event of a fire