ECA explains how to increase savings and safety this Christmas

Children’s stockings are likely to be bulging with electrical gifts this year, as research carried out by the ECA (Electrical Contractors’ Association) shows that children’s bedrooms have become electrically-powered entertainment centres. 55 per cent of children have their own television, and nearly half of children (48 per cent) have their own DVD/video player. Not forgetting the games console, with 47 per cent of children having one of their own in their bedroom.

Follow the ECA’s ‘top 10 tips’ for Children and Parents to help save energy:

1. Only use one – Make sure you only use one piece of home entertainment equipment at a time.
2. Switch it off! – If you are not using it, remember to always turn it off.
3. Don’t leave items on standby – They are still using energy, so make the effort to turn them off at the switch.
4. Let it sleep too – Don’t charge your mobile phone overnight.
5. Always, always, always – Turn the lights off when you leave a room.
6. Time for bed? – Turn all TVs, games consoles etc off, and unplug them when you go to bed.
7. That’ll teach ‘em – Parents should teach their children about the benefits of energy saving, it can be educational as well as economical!
8. Encourage children – While electronic games are fun, try to involve children in all types of activities, not just those that require electricity.
9. Get the whole family together – Once a week sit down to watch a film, or play on the Wii; while you’re still using energy it’s only from one source.
10. Reward them – This will encourage children to adopt energy saving techniques and make sure they continue to do it.

Giuliano Digilio, Head of Technical Services at the ECA, says: “Children today are more likely to plug in a Wii, DVD player or games console for entertainment than the children of the 1960s who, without a plug or electronic game in sight, were happy to cover their bedroom floors with jigsaw puzzles, lego sets, dolls or toy soldiers for their play time activities.

“So often the presents we give to children are electrical, and with Christmas just around the corner, it is vital that they know how to use them safely. We want children to have fun, but they need to be aware of electrical safety and know how to use their latest gadgets and gizmos correctly. Giuliano goes on to say: “With an expected hike in energy prices, and the need for everyone to use less energy, this is an ideal time to teach children about energy-saving measures. That way, they too can do their bit to help reduce the family fuel bill while staying safe and having fun too.”