Electricity is such an indispensable part of our society. It powers most of the things we use daily to make life more comfortable and convenient. As amazing and vital as it is, if not used correctly, it can be dangerous and can cause accidents, fire and even death. To protect your home and avoid putting your family and yourself at risk, follow these home electrical safety tips.
Essential Electrical Safety Tips For Your Home
Cords
As they connect your appliances to the power supply, cords should be handled with the utmost care to ensure they are in good condition.
Tips:
- Unwind cords fully before using them to prevent overheating.
- Inspect for any damage and replace/repair if necessary.
- Cover any stripped-away coating it with electrical tape.
- Disconnect the appliances using only the plug NOT the cord.
- Minimise the use of extension cords. Ensure to place them around walls to avoid people tripping over them (NEVER under carpets or rugs).
Power Boards/Power Strips
Power Boards/Power Strips serve to plug multiple electrical devices that are in proximity all at once. They often include a circuit breaker to interrupt the electric current to prevent overload or a short circuit.
Tips:
- Check regularly for scorching or discolouration; these are signs of damage. Replace it immediately.
- Don’t overload power boards with too many appliances.
- Ensure it has the correct amperage to support the devices.
- Don’t piggy-back a double adapter as it can cause an electrical fire.
- Make sure there’s ample ventilation around the power boards.
Childproofing
Children, especially toddlers, being very curious, love to explore their surroundings, which means they tend to stick their fingers inside sockets and touch appliances that are running.
Tips
- Put safety caps that are tamper-resistant on all unused electrical outlets.
- Tie up loose cords to avoid kids tugging on them.
Appliances
Electrical appliances are in every part of your home. Ensure they are running properly and avoid hazards by following electrical safety tips.
- Regularly inspect switches, plugs and cords. If there’s an indication of any damage, don’t risk using the appliances. Replace or have them repaired.
- Unplug appliances before cleaning them.
- NEVER touch them with wet hands.
- Ensure there’s space around them for adequate ventilation.
- Unplug or turn off appliances after using them.
One of the Most Important Electrical Safety Tips: Never DIY your Electrical Work
DIY-ing your electrical work has the potential of causing damage to your home and even worse, an electrical fire that can also affect properties and the residents within the surrounding areas. Apart from that, it is considered unlicensed electrical work, meaning it’s illegal and can have penalties of up to $40,000 for individuals.
So, whether it’s installation, wiring, repair or maintenance, engage the services of a licensed and accredited electrician. They have the expertise to identify electrical issues and provide you with the right solution.
Follow Electrical Safety Tips To Protect Your Home
Although electricity has the potential to be extremely dangerous, it’s a necessity in our lives and when utilised properly, can be a powerful ally (pun intended).
As the saying goes “it’s better to be safe than sorry” so always follow electrical safety tips to protect your home, family and yourself and to avoid dangerous consequences in the future.
Please get in touch with us if you have other questions. We’re happy to help.