Trading Standards

The cost of living crisis is causing us all to try and find cheaper ways to keep warm but this can come with risks.

Using unsafe electrical goods can put you in danger of electric shocks and fires. Take extra care when buying cheap or second-hand electrical items.

Share this safety information with your family, neighbours and anyone you think might be vulnerable.

Helpful tips

Do:

• buy your electrical goods from a reputable company
• look for a CE and/or a UKCA mark
• use only as per instructions
• unplug when not in use
• fit smoke alarms, heat detectors and carbon monoxide alarms
• unplug electric blankets before getting into bed

Do not:

• use social media hacks to keep warm
• buy cheap, counterfeit electrical items
• sleep with an open fire alight
• overload sockets
• use BBQs inside or on your balcony to keep warm
• use candles as a way to keep warm

Register your white goods (appliances such as fridges and washing machines) to stay informed if the manufacturer identifies any faults: www.registermyappliance.org.uk. If you suspect you’ve purchased an unsafe product, do not use it and contact Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133.

The London Fire Brigade offers Home Fire Safety Visits and will also fit a free smoke alarm where needed. 

Help and advice available

If you are struggling to pay your energy or fuel bills, there is help available. You can visit Citizens Advice- Grants and benefits to help you pay your energy bills. 

Kingston help support and advice

Age UK: call 0800 678 1602 for help with the cost of living

Food banks: Contact Citizens Advice on phone 0808 223 1133 for help using a food bank

Thinking Works: 0800 118 2327

Kingston Warm Spaces you can 020 8547 5000 for support