PRESS RELEASE

ELECTRICAL FIRES CAN BE PREVENTED: PERIODIC INSPECTIONS ARE ESSENTIAL!

The fire that broke out in a kitchen in Gönyeli on 20 October 2026, reportedly following a short circuit in a dishwasher that was in operation, has once again highlighted the vital importance of electrical safety in our living spaces.

The safety of electrical installations, the condition of electrical appliances and the effectiveness of protective systems are sensitive issues that require particular attention.

Even if an electrical installation is safe when a building is first put into use, it may become hazardous over time due to loose connections, deteriorating insulation, overloading, ageing equipment or inappropriate modifications made to the installation.

Similarly, faults in household electrical appliances can also pose a fire risk. Therefore, regularly assessing the safety and maintenance condition of these appliances, as well as verifying that the protective devices within the electrical installation operate correctly in the event of a fault, is of great importance in reducing the risk of fire.

In such incidents, technical investigations must establish whether the fire originated from the electrical installation itself or from the appliance in use. Assessing whether the protective systems functioned as intended is also essential to preventing similar incidents in the future.

International technical standards likewise emphasise that electrical installations must be assessed for safety not only at the initial installation stage but throughout their service life.

The implementation of a routine inspection and periodic testing system to safeguard the electrical safety of existing buildings in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus must no longer be delayed.

As KTEMB, we call on the relevant authorities to take the necessary steps to establish an effective system under which electrical installations are inspected at risk-based intervals, inspections are carried out by appropriately qualified professionals, and identified deficiencies are addressed.

It should be recognised that not every electrical fault can be detected in advance; however, regular inspections can help identify many potential hazards at an early stage.

KTEMB stands ready to contribute its professional knowledge and experience to the development of this system and to cooperate with the relevant institutions in establishing and implementing the necessary technical standards.

Electrical safety is not a matter of choice; it is essential for the protection of life and property. When risks can be reduced through prevention, we must not delay taking the necessary action!

Yours sincerely,

Türkay Uzun Sılalı
President
Turkish Cypriot Electrical Contractors Association (KTEMB)