Electrical safety is an important topic for homeowners, especially when the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that about 200 fatalities from 31,000 fires occur yearly due to home electrical systems.
Learn what you need to know about avoiding electrical hazards in the home with these essential safety tips. By following these safety guidelines today, ensure your family is safe and protected from potential hazards.
Additionally, be sure to have a certified electrician like M.R. Electricians perform regular inspections on your home’s wiring and make repairs as needed. With proper care and maintenance, you can further reduce the risk of electrical fires in your home.
10 Tips For Home Electrical Safety
Stay safe and proactive with these essential electrical safety tips for homeowners. Get started now and ensure your home is a safe environment for you and your family. Contact M.R. Electricians for more information about our services or to schedule an inspection.
1. Unplug all unused appliances
Unplug all electrical appliances in your home that are not being used on a regular basis. This includes radios, TVs, toasters, blenders, and other kitchen appliances. Even if an appliance is not turned on, it can still be a source of electrical danger. This practice will also help reduce your energy consumption as devices consume energy even while not in use.
2. Check electrical cords regularly
Inspect all the electrical cords in your home regularly for signs of fraying, cracking or other damage that may indicate a risk of electrocution or fire. Replace or repair any cords that are damaged and make sure to use safety covers on exposed electrical outlets. Keep all cords away from pets and children and store them away from hot surfaces to avoid damage.
3. Use surge protectors
Protect your home’s electronics from power surges by using surge protectors. These devices can help prevent expensive repairs due to electrical surges caused by lightning or downed power lines. Surge protectors should be installed in each room and connected directly to the main power source.
4. Be aware of overloaded outlets
Overloading an outlet can cause it to overheat and potentially start a fire, so make sure all rooms have enough outlets for the number of appliances being used in them at any given time. You should also ensure that extension cords are not strung together or connected to the same outlet at the same time.
5. Keep flammable objects away from electrical sources
Flammable objects such as curtains, magazines, blankets, and rugs should be kept away from electrical outlets and appliances to reduce the risk of fire. Additionally, make sure any combustible materials are stored away from any high-heat appliances in the home.
6. Keep electrical devices away from water
Never use any electrical device, such as a hair dryer or electric razor near water. This is especially important in the bathroom and kitchen where there are often higher levels of humidity. Make sure you have all necessary safety coverings on the outlets and keep all appliances away from sinks and tubs to avoid potential shock hazards.
7. Always follow appliance instructions
Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any electrical appliance. Do not use an appliance for something other than its intended purpose and make sure you understand how to use it correctly before connecting it to a power source.
8. Your appliances should have enough space
Ensure that all your appliances have enough space to allow for proper ventilation and cooling. Appliances should never be placed in tightly enclosed spaces or near any flammable objects. This will help prevent overheating, which can cause a fire hazard. Your electric or gas dryer should be placed at least a foot away from any wall or cabinet.
9. Use extension cords with caution
Extension cords should only be used as a temporary solution and not as a permanent power source. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the appliance you are using it with and do not use it if it is frayed or damaged in any way. Extension cords should never run under carpets or furniture as this can cause them to overheat and present a risk of fire.
10. Get an annual assessment
Lastly, to make sure your electrical system is in optimal condition, have a professional electrical contractor like M.R. Electricians perform an annual assessment of your home’s wiring and other electrical components. This will help ensure that all potential hazards are identified and any repairs that need to be done are carried out as soon as possible.
By following these essential electrical safety tips, you can help protect your family and reduce the risk of fires or electrocution in your home. Be sure to have an electrician inspect your wiring periodically to ensure that all systems are functioning correctly and safely. With proper care and maintenance, you can keep your home safe and avoid potential hazards. Contact M.R. Electricians today if you have any problems with your electrical systems.
Contact M.R. Electricians For a Home Electrical Assessment
Get started now and ensure your home is a safe environment by having regular inspections done by the certified electricians at M.R. Electricians. Contact us today at (301) 871-0477 to learn more about our services or to schedule an inspection! Stay proactive and reduce the risk of electrical fires in your home. Get started now and make sure your family is safe and protected.
