On 2/26/2009 11:06 AM Hobbyist spake thus:

When I switch my kettle off at the electric socket, a brief flash of
green light is visible behind the socket. Is this normal, or could it
be dangerous? Supposedly it's ok if the kettle plug is earthed?

Flashes of light accompanying switching something on or off are *never*
OK. Indicates arcing contacts, which can only get worse with time.

Not sure where or what kind of switch you have; "switch my kettle off at
the electric socket" is a bit ambiguous. But it's time to replace that
switch if it sparks. "Earthing" (aka grounding) won't help you here.


--
Personally, I like Vista, but I probably won't use it. I like it
because it generates considerable business for me in consulting and
upgrades. As long as there is hardware and software out there that
doesn't work, I stay in business. Incidentally, my company motto is
"If this stuff worked, you wouldn't need me".

- lifted from sci.electronics.repair