Electricity Safety Tips to Know at Home

Electricity is a basic need at home. It can be dangerous if not treated and used properly. Electricity safety is one of the most important measures you should keep in mind.

Here are some electricity safety tips you should do at home:

1. Always Turn off the Power

Turn off and unplug appliances when not in use. If you ever have to deal with electrical issues, always cut the power at the breaker box. Before repairing, always confirm that the outlet, fixture or switch is always off. 

2. Fire Extinguisher Availability

The availability of fire extinguisher helps in prevention of fire hazards. It is better to use a fire extinguisher in case of a fire. Water is a well-known conductor of electricity. Using water to put out a fire may cause electrocution and shock hazard for someone putting the flames out. Ensure a fire extinguisher is rated to handle electrical fires.

3. Use More than One Outlet

It is not a safe setup to have one outlet strip with a number of appliances plugged to it.  It is best to distribute small appliances and electronic devices to multiple outlets. This will avoid overwhelming the only used outlet.

4. Watch Out for Warm Outlets

Outlets should always be cool to touch. Having a warm outlet can mean an electrical fault inside it. If this happens, shut the circuit off of the breaker box and call an electrician immediately.

5. Child-proof Your Outlets

Children are playful and always curious. Installing outlet covers can protect them from electrical shock. It is even the best choosing spring-loaded covers that automatically close when nothing is plugged in. 

6. Invest in Circuit Interrupters

Circuit interrupters prevent types of fire that can kill and injure lots of people. It is also helpful to avoid damaging your property when electrical wiring has too much current flowing. 

7. Examine Flickering Lights

Flickering lights may indicate loose wires on the circuit. It may also be a bulb coming loose. Tighten the bulb to gain sufficient electricity flow. If it doesn’t fix it, call an electrician.

8. Extension Cords are for Short Term

Extension cords are meant for short-term use. These are not listed, labeled and rated for permanent use. With continuous use over a long period of time, extension cords can deteriorate. It can create a potentially dangerous electric shock and fire hazard. Install additional outlets where you need them.

Electricity is a cornerstone of modern living. As the saying goes, “Prevention is better than cure.” It is important to take note of these simple electricity safety measures to steer clear of its threats. Make sure to call a licensed electrician when it comes to electricity. It can save you a lot of time and money. Mostly, it will save your property and family at risk.