Accessible switch or extension lead

twopenny

So I'm setting up the house for post op and for some time need everything easy to do. No bending, ballet moves or contortion 😉

I have not found a way to turn off the switch from a distance. Tried crutch, grabber and piece of wood.

Would it be an idea to get an extension lead that has an off switch on the extension? I could tape it to the table then and make it waist high.

I could make the space a foot larger but won't get in with crutches or bend down.

Can't move the table because of patio doors.

Any thoughts please?

Rob5342

Another option would be a Tapo smart plug, then you could turn it on and off with your phone or Alexa.

greyteam1959

It all depends depends what you what to turn on & off.

twopenny

Rob my attention span at the moment won't allow me to learn new tricks. But I like the idea for the future so will look into it because in a small place all the sockets are in corners.

Greyteam it's a laptop. Will be shut down. Plug pulled out of the extension. That bit is easy. I just can't get near enough, downwards to flick the switch.

WIAWSNB

Simplest is as you say, switched extension lead. Eg: https://ebay.us/m/WJwDj5

305253976468

twopenny

I can't access that clever little icon WIAB but I was just concerned that it wouldn't be safe enough. I know what they look like.

I won't be going anywhere and have fire alarms for overnight.

Have moved all furniture for maximum things to work from one area but won't be able to move it back for 4 or more months and getting low enough to turn anything off is my only dilemma. There should be a way but seems the switches need the right amount of pressure the right direction. Who knew.

chrisw

If the smart plugs are a bit tricky, you could always just use a remote controlled socket. They had a pack of 3 in Aldi recently for £10 but here's some similar ones in B&M:

https://www.bmstores.co.uk/products/eveready-remote-control-mains-sockets-2pk-366304

twopenny

That looks a good compromise Chris.

No Aldi or b&m within 50miles but I'll check locally. We have Tesco's, Screwfix and Toolstation now. Even a private shop.

So lead and plugs probably. I've just realised there's the fire and electric blanket!

You take bending for granted.

WIAWSNB

I like Chris' solution too.

Do you have a Wickes? Argos? B&Q?

PennysIntoPounds

Does the plugpoint need to be switched off if you're switching off the device it connects to?

I might have misinterpreted the pic and description but I would say move the table further into that corner so you can reach the laptop from ?the sofa without moving too much, and give yourself more room to manoeuvre at the other end.

Otherwise, as others said, an extension cord should be fine as long as its from a reputable seller.

Wondering out loud if a crutch with the thick plastic end (you didn't say what type you have) would give enough reach and firm flexibility to switch the switch...

Regardless, best of luck for your op and recovery

twopenny

Have an Argos WIAW. Will look them up tomorrow.

Penny, the table is sticking out so I can 'recline ' on the sofa and watch iPlayer etc yet sit on a chair and sort out my photos.

I'm not supposed to lift anything for ages and it's a top quality but ancient device.

Multi-purpose 🙂 thinking ahead.