She was allegedly wearing headphones and holding a laptop when she was found dead with burns to her head, ears and chest
The apparent electrocution of a young woman wearing headphones has prompted a warning to consumers from authorities against buying cheap, unapproved USB chargers or adaptors.
The woman was allegedly wearing headphones and holding a laptop when she was found dead with burns to her head, ears and chest on the NSW Central Coast
A report is being prepared for the coroner after the 28-year-old woman’s body was found in a home in North Gosford on 23 April, police say.
Officers from Brisbane Water are investigating the circumstances.
The NSW Fair Trading Commissioner, Rod Stowe, said there was a “real and present danger” with electrical items that are not approved to Australian standards.
“We’ve been trying to hammer that message for some time, but I suppose this is a bit of a wake-up call,” Stowe said.
He warned people not to be tempted by cheap, replica chargers or adaptors, which can burst into flames if components are not insulated properly.
Consumers are also warned not to use a mobile device if it is being charged at the same time.
“These devices pose a serious risk of electrocution or fire,” he said. “With electrical items, you don’t get much of a second chance.”
Fair Trading NSW says a number of unapproved and non-compliant USB style chargers, travel adaptors and power boards had been removed from a shop in Campsie, in Sydney’s west.
The Campsie trader faces fines of up to $87,500 and two years’ imprisonment, meanwhile a corporation can be fined up to $875,000.
Consumers who have already bought unapproved and non-compliant USB-style chargers, used to charge phones and tablets, are advised to bend the pins on the chargers and throw them away immediately.
Anyone with information about unapproved and non-compliant electrical or gas products should contact Fair Trading on 13 32 20.