A outside mains socket is very handy when using corded power tools in the garden. However, they MUST be protected with a RCD (residual current device) which cuts the power within less than half a second if it detects a fault. Put simply an RCD can save your life!
A motion sensing outside security light is a good way to welcome guests and deter burglars.
Modern Consumer Units are much safer as well as more convenient than the older re-wirable fuse boards. Circuits are protected by MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) and/or RCDs (Residual Current Devices).
Domestic electrics should be subjected to a "Periodic Inspection" at least every 10 years to ensure that the wiring, sockets and switches have not deteriated and are still safe to use. Electrical problems are one of the main causes of household fires.