Electical Safety Tips to Save Home

According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission, more than 451,000 residential fires occur every year. One third is caused because of problems in a home’s electrical system.

Some of the causes for electric fires are:

Faulty and old wiring
Misuse of extension cords
Faulty electrical appliances
Overuse of electricity, especially around Christmas
Short circuit and poor maintenance

It is also a fact that electrical wiring problems cause twice as many fires as faulty electrical appliances.

However, adopting a few of the following safety measures can reduce the risk of an electrical fire:

If your house is very old, hire a licensed and competent electrician to have the entire wiring updated.
Use extension cords sensibly – never run the cords under rugs or in places where they run the risk of being crushed, stepped on or pulled.
Ensure not to overload outlets. If you feel the need to add more outlets, hire an electrician.
Have your electric circuits checked to ensure they are not overloaded.
Make sure to unplug electrical appliances such as toasters, coffee makers and microwave ovens when not in use.
When doing holiday decorations, ensure a safe environment by monitoring circuits to check if they are overloaded.

Other Safety Tips for Your Home:

Use the right light bulbs in all lamps and light fixtures.
Don’t tie or knot cords. Also make sure the furniture doesn’t sit on cords.
Unplug toaster ovens, coffee makers and hair dryers and other small appliances after using them.
The electrical outlet in the bathroom should have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI.)This protects you and your loved ones from a dangerous shock when water and electricity come together. Ask your electrician to install a GFCI at your home.
Don’t plug in several appliances at one time.
Make sure all electrical outlets and switches are covered by “faceplates”.
Don't use an electric heater in the bathroom unless it is designed for bathroom use.
Do not attach swings, clothes lines, hanging baskets, etc. around beams that have electrical wires attached.
If the cords are damaged and the wires are exposed, do not use them. You must either repair or replace. Check items regularly.
Always ensure that electrical items are approved standard when purchasing.

If you still have questions about your home’s electrical safety, call us for an inspection today!