Sparkies urge Aussies not to tackle dangerous DIY work this footy long weekend

Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has today urged Aussie punters to avoid tackling any dangerous DIY electrical work this weekend and to leave all electrifying performances to the footy players.

MEA CEO Malcolm Richards said that with several states and territories holding a long weekend that many people would look to do tidy up work around the house, but any electrical work should only be done by a professional.

“A long weekend is a great opportunity to catch up on chores around the house, but no one should carry out DIY electrical work unless they are a fully qualified professional,” Mr Richards said.

“The small cost you may save doing your own electrical work is nothing compared to the enormous value of keeping you and your loved ones safe from disaster, only hire a licensed electrician to carry out electrical work.

“Aussies right around the country should sit back and relax this long weekend and leave all electrifying performances to the footy stars playing in the NRL and AFL grand finals.”

Mr Richards also highlighted the need for greater use of electrical safety switches, which can turn off the flow of electricity in just a few thousands of a second if the circuit is interrupted.

Most Australian homes have safety switches on only one or two circuits, while some homes are only fitted with circuit breakers, which protect appliances and electrical fittings but not human beings.

“A safety switch will cut the flow of electricity faster than the critical phase of a heart beat,” Mr Richards said.

“We again call on politicians and bureaucrats to lift the standards and require a safety switch on all circuits in all Australian homes.

“But in the meantime, we urge home owners not to leave their lives and safety up to politicians. Safety switches are relatively low-cost devices, and they could save the lives of your loved ones.

“Next time you are having electrical work done at home, ask your electrician to install safety switches on all circuits.”