How to change a light bulb safely

Changing a bulb is simple, and the few accidents that happen are almost always about electricity or a fall — not the bulb itself. Do the two safety steps and the rest is easy. Two rules before you touch anything. Switch the light off at the wall, and let a bulb that has been on for a while cool down — a working bulb gets hot enough to burn and can shatter if gripped hard. Step by step Turn it off. For a ceiling light, switch off at the wall. If you are at all unsure, switch the circuit off at the consumer unit (fuse box). Stand safely. Use a proper step-stool or ladder on firm, level floor — never a wheeled chair. Keep your hips between the ladder rails and do not overreach. Let it cool, then remove the old bulb. Bayonet fittings: push in gently and turn anticlockwise. Screw fittings: turn anticlockwise. Edison screw and bayonet are the two common types. Match the replacement. Same fitti…