May is National Electrical Safety Month! It’s the time of year that we raise awareness on how to avoid potential electrical hazards. Many electrocutions and home fires can be prevented simply by understanding basic electrical safety principles and adhering to safe practices. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), an estimated 35,000 home fires, over 1,130 injuries, 500 deaths, and $1.4 billion in property damage occurs each year as a result of electrical malfunctions.
Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, electrical safety should be a top priority in your home. Awareness of electrical hazards is the key to reducing the staggering number of electrically-related home fires, injuries and deaths that occur every year.
Safety Tips:
Resources like ESFI and the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) offer great advice for simple electrical safety practices.
- Check electric cords for fraying or cracking. Replace cords that may be damaged, and don’t overload electric outlets.
- Remember extension cords are intended to be temporary; they are not intended as permanent household wiring.
- Don’t run cords under carpets or rugs and don’t tack or nail cords to walls or floors.
- Keep electric appliances and tools away from water. Never reach for or unplug an appliance that has fallen into water; instead, turn the power off at the breaker before you unplug the appliance or remove it from the water.
- Never put anything other than an electrical plug in an outlet. Use outlet covers or caps to protect children.
- Keep your home’s electrical system in good repair. Contact a licensed electrical contractor if you have flickering lights, sparks, non-functioning outlets, or need wiring repairs or upgrades.
Following these suggestions, you and your family will find it’s easy to avoid electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries and damage. Whether you have questions about your current electrical system, need a home inspection, repairs or an upgrade, you can “Get it Done Right. Get it Done Safely” at Mister Sparky.
ESFI Resources:
Electrical Safety for Homeowners and Consumers