Electrical Safety 101: 10 Tips All Home Owner Should Follow
Being a responsible homeowner ensuring the safety of your family and home should be your main priority. The most crucial security features of your home is its electrical system. Electrical accidents and injuries can cause death, which is why it’s essential to take measures to stop accidents and injuries. This article will provide ten crucial electrical safety tips that will help you safeguard your home and loved ones.
Tip 1: Check Your Electrical Cords Regularly
Electrical cords that are damaged or broken can be hazardous, causing electrocution and fires. Regularly inspect your cords to ensure that they are in good shape. If you spot any damage you should replace them as soon as possible. It is also crucial to make sure that the cords aren’t placed in high traffic areas that they are likely to be tripped over or chewed by pets.
Tip 2: Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water
Water and electricity are an extremely dangerous mix. Make sure that electrical appliances are kept away from water sources like bathtubs, sinks and pools. If you are required to make use of electrical devices close to water, be sure they’re specifically designed for this purpose and follow the safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Tip 3: Don’t Overload Outlets
The overloading of outlets caused by plugging multiple devices at once can result in overheating and fires. Use extension cords and power strips that have multiple outlets rather than overloading a single outlet. Be sure that the cords or power strips you choose to use are designed to handle the electrical load they will be carrying.
Tip 4: Have a Fire Extinguisher on Hand
In the event of an electrical fire, using a fire extinguisher at reach will help put out the fire fast and prevent further damage. It is essential to get the correct type of fire extinguisher for your home’s electrical system. Choose an extinguisher classified for Class C fires, which are caused by electrical equipment.
Tip 5: Use Surge Protectors
Power surges caused by lightning strikes, power outages or faulty wiring can damage appliances and electronics. Using surge protectors can safeguard your devices by diverting excessive voltage to ground. Be sure to use surge protectors that are designed for the specific electrical load of your devices.
Tip 6: Employ an expert Electrician for Repairs
DIY electrical repair projects can be hazardous and can result in injury and the destruction of your home. Employing an insured and licensed electrician to repair electrical issues is vital to ensure your safety and peace of mind. At South Auckland Electricians, we have experts in the field of electrical engineering capable of handling every electrical need.
Tip 7: Install GFCIs within Your Home
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) will help you avoid electrical electrocution and shocks by finding ground faults, and then cutting off the power supply. Place GFCIs on areas where water is present like the bathroom, kitchen outdoor spaces, and kitchens.
Tip 8: Avoid DIY Electrical Work
DIY electrical work is risky, and even an error of a minute can cause severe damage to your house and possibly your life. Leave electrical work to the professionals to ensure that it is done safely and correctly.
Tip 9 How to Teach Your Children about Safety of Electrical Safety
Teaching your children about electrical safety is an essential part of protecting them. Teach them about the dangers of playing with electrical gadgets and cords and the necessity in not touching electric outlets. Educate them on what to do in case in the event of an electrical emergency such as a power outage or a fire.
Tip 10: Be Educated About Electrical Safety
Staying up-to-date on electrical safety is essential to be aware of any dangers and how to prevent these hazards. Keep up with South Auckland Electricians on social media and check out our blog to stay informed about the latest electrical safety tips and trends. It is also possible to speak with our expert electricians for any queries or questions that you may have.
Conclusion
In the end, safety of electrical equipment is essential to protecting your home and loved ones secure. If you adhere to these ten important electrical safety guidelines to avoid electrical accidents and injuries and safeguard your home. Here at South Auckland Electricians, we are committed to providing high-quality electrical services to make sure that your home’s electrical system is safe and reliable. Contact us now for all your electrical needs.
FAQ
Do you think it is safe to plug multiple power strips to one outlet?
It’s not secure and could cause an electrical explosion. Instead, use an surge protector that has multiple outlets.
Do I have to put a hair dryer in the bathtub?
No, never use appliances that are electrical near water, in particular in the bathroom.
When should I change your electrical wires?
If you see any signs of signs of fraying or damage to the cords it’s time to replace them.
Do I have to install GFCIs throughout my home?
It is recommended installing GFCIs in areas with water like the bathroom, kitchen and outside spaces.
How often should I schedule my home’s electrical system inspected?
It is recommended to have an electrical check every 10 years, or sooner if you spot any problems. Call South Auckland Electricians to schedule an inspection.