Don't Get Zapped! A Decade of Essential Electric Safety Recommendations for Home Owners
If you are a home owner, ensuring the safety of your family as well as your property should be your top priority. One of the most important safety aspects of your home is the electrical system. Electric injuries and accidents can cause death, which is why it’s important to take steps to avoid accidents and injuries. This article offers ten important electrical safety tips to protect your home and your loved ones.
Tip 1: Ensure You Check Your electrical cords regularly
Damaged or frayed electrical cords could pose a risk, causing fires and electrocution. Check your electrical cords regularly to make sure they’re in good condition. If you spot any damage you should replace them as soon as possible. It is also important to make sure that the cords are not placed in high traffic areas that they are likely to be chewed or tripped over by pets.
TIP 2: Keep Electric devices away from water.
Electricity and water are an unwise combination. Keep electrical devices away from water sources such as bathtubs, sinks and even pools. If you are required to use electrical devices close to water, make sure they’re specifically designed for this purpose, and follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
Tip 3: Don’t overload Outlets
The overloading of outlets caused by plugging too many devices into them could cause fires and overheating. Use extension cords and power strips that have multiple outlets instead of overloading just one outlet. Ensure that the cords and power strips you choose to use are designed to handle the electrical load they will be carrying.
Tip 4: Keep a Fire Extinguisher on Hand
In case of an electrical fire, having a fire extinguisher at reach can help you put out the fire fast and avoid further damage. It is vital to get the appropriate kind of fire extinguisher to your home’s electrical system. Look for an extinguisher rated for Class C fires that are caused by electrical devices.
Tip 5: Use Surge Protectors
Lightning strikes, power outages, or defective wiring could damage your electronics and appliances. Using surge protectors can safeguard your devices by diverting excess voltage to the ground. Make sure you choose surge protectors that are designed to the particular voltage of the device.
Tip 6: Employ an experienced Electrician for Repairs
DIY electrical repair projects can be hazardous and can result in injuries or the destruction of your property. Hiring a licensed and insured electrician for electrical repairs is crucial for your security and safety. At Electricians of Papakura, we have a team of expert electricians that can take care of all your electrical requirements.
Tip 7: Install GFCIs in Your Home
Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) can safeguard you from electric shocks and electrocution by finding ground faults, and then cutting off the electrical supply. Place GFCIs on areas that have water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor areas.
Tip 8: Don’t attempt DIY Electrical Work
DIY electrical work is riskyand one small error could result in serious damage to your home and endanger your life. Let electrical work be handled by experts to ensure that the work is safely done and in a safe manner.
Tip 9 How to Teach Your Children about Safety in the Electrical Safety
Instructing your children about electrical safety is a vital aspect of making sure they are safe. Teach them about the dangers of playing with electrical devices and cords and the importance to avoid touching outlets. Educate them on what to do in the event in the event of an electrical emergency like a power failure or a fire.
Tip 10: Keep Informed about electrical safety
Staying up-to-date on electrical safety is vital to be aware of any dangers and how to prevent these hazards. Follow Electricians of Papakura on social media and read our blog to keep up-to-date about the most current information on electrical safety and the latest trends. You can also consult with our experts electricians with any concerns or questions you might have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electrical safety is essential to protecting your home and loved ones protected. If you follow these 10 essential electrical safety tips You can avoid injury and accidents caused by electrical currents and secure your home. At Electricians of Papakura, we are committed to providing the highest quality electrical services to ensure that your home’s electrical system is safe and secure. Contact us today to discuss your electrical needs.
FAQ
Can you safely plug in multiple power strips to one outlet?
This isn’t secure and could cause an electrical explosion. Instead, you should use an surge protector that has multiple outlets.
Do I have to put a hair dryer in the bathtub?
Never use any electrical devices near water, especially in the bathroom.
When is the best time to replace your electrical wires?
If you notice any cracks or damage to the cords it is time to replace them.
Do I need to install GFCIs throughout my entire house?
It is suggested to install GFCIs in areas where water is present, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and outdoor areas.
When should I have my home’s electrical system inspected?
It is recommended that you have an electrical inspection every 10 years, or sooner if you spot any issues. Call Electricians of Papakura to schedule an inspection.