Winter electrical safety: heaters, lights and extension leads

Ampvale Electrical editorial team · 22 October 2026 · 2 min read · How we write

Plug-in heaters

• Plug heaters directly into a wall socket, never into an extension lead
• Keep them a metre from curtains, bedding and clothes
• Never leave them on overnight or when you go out

Extension leads

A four-way extension lead is rated at 13 amps in total, not 13 amps per socket. A heater, a kettle and a hairdryer on one lead will overload it. Never plug one extension lead into another.

Festive lights

• Check for damaged cables and broken bulbs before putting them up
• Use outdoor-rated lights and sockets outside
• Switch them off at night

Warning signs

A plug that is hot to touch, a burning smell, scorch marks or a socket that buzzes all mean stop and get it checked. Tenants should report these to their landlord in writing straight away. See tenant rights.