Green fingers, not burnt fingers!

Tough new laws now effectively ban garden enthusiasts from installing their own electrics in ponds, sheds, garages and greenhouses, warns consumer electrical safety organisation the NICEIC.
From 1st January 2005 all electrical work in the garden must be carried out by a government-approved electrician, such as one registered with the NICEIC. The new law aims to reduce the rising number of deaths caused by faulty electrics.
External electrical work is particularly hazardous due to the presence of water, damp, humidity, lack of clothing, and the extremes of weather, which can make equipment deteriorate faster outdoors.
"This law will make gardens safer, and is long overdue", say Jim Speirs director general of the NICEIC. "Gardeners with ambitious plans for their outdoor space must be aware of the new laws - and the dangers they could face".
According to the new law, gardeners are allowed to maintain and replace equipment. However, because the risk of electric shock is far greater outside, a government-approved electrician who can provide a certificate, such as one registered by the NICEIC must undertake all other work.