In 2011, electrical failures were the cause of 43,700 home fires in the United States, resulting in 430 deaths, 1,620 injuries, and $1.5 billion in property damage. And fire is not the only concern. Every year more than 300 people are electrocuted, while thousands more experience nonfatal electrical shock and burn injuries.
Whether you are a homeowner or a renter, electrical safety should be a top priority. Awareness of electrical hazards is the key to reducing the staggering number of annual electric-related home fires, injuries, and deaths.
May is Electrical Safety Month and PenLight encourages members to brush up on the latest safety tips and complete necessary safety checklists, which can be found at the National Electrical Safety Month website.