As the cost-of-living crisis prompts more people to consider buying second-hand large domestic appliances, we are urging householders to register their goods and devices, whether brand new or pre-loved. West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is supporting the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliance’s (AMDEA) campaign this week, to remind appliance users to register them with the manufacturer. Domestic appliances account for nine per cent of accidental fires in West Midlands homes - nearly 740 incidents between April 2017 and March 2022. Faults are believed to spark 86 per cent of such fires, in items such as ‘white goods’, computers, battery chargers, extractor fans, electric blankets and hairdryers. Tumble dryers and washing machines are the appliances most often recorded as the source of ignition, accounting for 30.0% (221) and 21.8% (161) respectively. On our website, https://www.wmfs.net/safety/register-your-products/ you can find links to brand registration pages to register your appliance quickly and securely. This then helps your manufacturer contact you if something is wrong.
Pete Wilson, Head of Prevention at WMFS said: “Many more people are thinking about buying second-hand items to cut costs. Some will also be installing products they’ve been given by family members or friends, or maybe adopting a machine already connected when they move into a new place. “But they can still do the sensible thing – it’s easy and free. Registering these appliances means the manufacturer knows where to find it in case of a safety issue or recall. It’s also advisable for anybody in rented or housing association accommodation to register their own electrical appliances that aren’t included in the original tenancy agreement. “You can’t put a price on the peace of mind brought by knowing you’re registered, and it might even extend the life of the appliance as well.”
To register older appliances (up to 12 years old since the purchase date) or new ones, you will need the following details: personal details – contact details and email.
