Electricity powers every aspect of our lives. We rely on its safety and consistency to heat our homes, cook our food, and light up our lives. However, electricity can be dangerous. It’s important to keep you and your home safe from the risk of damage or injury. The most common injuries caused by electricity are electric shock, electrocution, electrical burns, and fire. Follow these electrical home safety tips to keep your home safe from electrical risk.
Inspect power cords and extension cords
Power cords can become damaged by moving furniture and pinching the cable, from pets biting, or from being pulled or bent near the receptacle. Do not plug in a cord with frayed insulation before wrapping the affected area with electrical tape. If the cable is damaged further it should not be used before repair. Make sure extension cords are rated for the electricity needed.
Inspect tools, heaters, and appliances
Always turn off the item before plugging it in. Look for damage or wear in the item to be used, if after plugging in it doesn’t work properly or smells, turn off the item and unplug it immediately.
Inspect wiring, fuses, breakers
Watch out for warm outlets, smell, or smoke as it could mean that the wiring is unsafe. In this case, turn the breaker off or remove the fuse and call an electrician for assistance. Breakers that continually trip, or fuses that blow often are also signs of an issue and could require an electrician to resolve.
Outside the home
Power lines can come above or below ground, avoid any contact with elevated lines. Call to have any underground lines located before digging. Use outdoor rated extension cords, these cables are designed to handle weather and temperature.
Safe practices and inspection will ensure your safety and keep your house running properly. Include these electrical home safety tips in your regular inspections along side smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers.