Stay aware of electrical dangers in your home
Electricity is used every single day with so many devices and appliances requiring power. Appliances are common household tools we use, and even though it’s common there is still danger associated with it.
Improper use or normal wear and tear can occur, and it is good to know how to be safe with electricity.
Our team of electricians in the Redlands think it is important to know some safety principles and make sure that everyone in is kept safe from preventable hazards and safety risks.
For example, small children can often go places where they shouldn’t and this should never be left to chance.
Hazards from loose cabling to electricity warning tags, educating your kids about electrical safety is vital to help prevent injuries.
By taking some simple measures you can both prevent hazards, keeping your loved ones safe in around home and in public. You can also call on the assistance of your local electrician’s services for any safety or security solutions.
In this article, we’ve made a guide for electrical safety around your home.
Top tips for Electrical Safety around your home
It can take just one mistake for an electrical fire to start, but preventative steps with the help of your local domestic or commercial electrician can prove an effective solution.
#1 Pay attention to your electrical appliances
It’s always best to follow your appliance instructions.
Stay aware of the condition of your sockets and plugs to make sure it is operated as safely as possible.
Most electrical equipment will require proper air circulation, with spacing between walls, cabinets and other appliances.
- Make sure your appliances have the UL mark, these appliances are tested to make sure they are safe for the Australian market.
- Unplug unused appliances.
- Keep cords out of reach of pets or children.
- Give appliances room and space as appliances generate heat.
- Always follow appliance instructions carefully and do not attempt amateur repairs or upgrades.
- Keep electrical appliances away from water or extreme humid areas.
- Do not operate appliances with wet hands or while standing in water.
#2 Power Cords
All electrical appliance has a power cord, and many of us use extension cords and power boards. It is important to be aware of the condition when using electricity, here are some safety tips to follow: - Regularly check cords for cracks, kinks, or fraying. This includes all cords from power tools to hair dryers.
- Only use cords for their intended use.
- Make sure that cords are plugged into outlets firmly – Loose plugs that are easily pulled out should not be used.
- Avoid stapling or nailing power cords at any time, use tap or cable ties to secure your cords position.
- Do not attempt to modify a power cord without using a licensed electrician. Don’t remove or file down a wider prong to attempt a cord to plug into an outlet.
- Extension cords should be used as a temporary solution.
#3 Light Bulbs and fixtures
Light bulbs are the single most common electrical fixture in homes, and proper light bulb safety can keep them from becoming a common electrical hazard.
- Use bulbs that have the correct wattage requirements for each fixture. Using a higher wattage bulb can cause the fixture to overheat.
- Consider switching to more efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs that provide the same level of light at a lower wattage level.
- Always screw bulbs in tightly; a loose bulb can cause sparks or shorts.
- Be sure to unplug or turn off a fixture completely before changing light bulbs.
#4 Outdoors
It is also important to practice electrical safety when outside since many electrical hazards can be found near homes and not just inside their walls.
- Keep trees pruned and away from power lines overhead as well as where the power lines approach the house.
- Do not fly kites, model aircraft or balloons near power lines.
- When using a ladder, carefully inspect the surrounding area to be sure it is free from power lines.
- Do not swim or play in water during an electrical storm, even if it is not raining.
- Always assume that contact with a power line can be deadly.
- When it comes to home safety and security do not approach a downed power line to see if it is live – it may give no signs that can be easily observed, but it is just as deadly. Contact the authorities immediately about downed lines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electrical safety is an important aspect of any home, from lighting to your appliances. By knowing the best electrical practices recommended by our team of Redlands electricians, you can lower and prevent the risk of accidents. The guide above will avoid overworking your home’s electrical system and keep things running smoothly.