Page Menu

Home Electrical Safety

Posted: May 5, 2023, 10:57 am
Teach everyone in the home to inspect power and extension cords for tears, cracks and fraying before use. Do not use nails or staples to secure cords, as this can cause damage or start a fire. 0600650651182

Electricity is such a necessary part of our lives that we tend to take it for granted, but using it safely is vitally important. Thousands of people in the United States are critically injured and electrocuted each year as a result of home electrical fires and accidents.

An average of 51,000 electrical home-structure fires each year claim almost 500 lives, injure more than 1,400 people and cause more than $1.3 billion in property damage. In addition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that nearly 400 people are electrocuted in

the U.S. each year. These could be avoided simply by understanding basic electrical safety principles and adhering to safe practices, according to the The Electrical Safety Foundation International. 0751141056894

The ESFI developed a number of resources to help consumers understand and follow basic electrical safety principles and practices. Learn to minimize storm-related electrical hazards with ESFI’s collection of Severe Weather Safety Resources.

ESFI reminds you that the best way to protect your family and your home against the risk of electrical fires or electrocution is to hire a qualified, licensed electrician to perform any electrical work in your home. Consumers should pay special attention to the following:

Smoke Alarms – They save lives

  • Do you have enough smoke alarms?
  • Are they working?
  • Do you test them?

Switches & Outlets – Be on the Lookout for Signs of Trouble.

  • Are they working?
  • Do they make crackling, buzzing or sizzling sounds?
  • Are they warm to the touch?
  • Do plugs fit snugly?

Cords – Never Use Damaged Cords

  • Is there fraying or cracking?
  • Are they pinched or pierced?
  • Do you use extension cords all the time?
  • Are cords getting enough air?

Lamps & Appliances – Use them Safely

  • Are you using the right bulbs?
  • Do you use space heaters safely?
  • Are appliance cords protected from damage?

Electrical Panel – Know the Basics

  • Do you have arc-fault circuit interruptors?
  • Have you tested your AFCIs?
  • Are all circuit breakers and fuses the proper size?