Home Safety
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Electricity
While electricity makes our life easier, it also comes with certain dangers, namely, electrocution and fire. The tips below can not only help you avoid these dangers they can also help you avoid high electric bills!
Make sure outlets and electrical cords are in good condition.
Replace any missing or broken wall plates and check for outlets that have loose-fitting plugs, which can overheat and lead to fire. Make sure there are safety covers on all unused outlets if you have children. Make sure electrical cords are not frayed or cracked. Don't run them across areas where people can trip over them, nail or staple them, or place them under carpets or rugs where they can start fires.
Don't overload outlets.
Don't plug too many things into one outlet or use too many extension cords. Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis. They are not meant to be permanent household wiring.
Make sure your plugs fit your outlets.
Plugs should fit securely into outlets. Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn't fit or remove one of the prongs to make it fit. This could cause an electrical shock.
Use the right wattage light bulbs.
Make sure your light bulbs aren't too hot for your lamps or lighting fixtures. If you don't know the correct wattage, use a lower wattage light bulb that isn't hot to the touch. Make sure that light bulbs are screwed in securely (so that they don't fall out or overheat), but don't force them in - this could cause them to break when trying to replace them. Halogen lamps can be especially hot, so don't place them near curtains, clothing or other flammable materials. NEVER place clothing or fabric over a lamp.
Know how to use your circuit breaker/fuse box.
Know where your circuit breaker or fuse box is located and how to check for a blown circuit breaker or fuse. Always replace a fuse or circuit breaker with the same size fuse or circuit breaker. If you don't know, ask an electrician to check and label your box for you.
Don't mix water and electricity.
Don't put appliances where they might come in contact with water (be especially careful in kitchens and bathrooms). If a plugged-in appliance falls into water, NEVER reach in to pull it out - even if it's turned off. First, turn off the power at the main source (your circuit breaker or fuse box) and then unplug the appliance. If you have an appliance that has gotten wet, don't use it until a qualified repair person has checked it.
Don't use faulty appliances.
Check to see that appliances are in good condition and work properly. Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs and connectors. Use a surge protector to protect expensive appliances, such as computers, televisions, and radios. If an appliance is constantly blowing your fuses or tripping a circuit breaker, or if it has given you a shock, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced.
Turn off all appliances when not in use.
Don't leave appliances on for long periods of time, overnight, or if you're away from home. Not only will you reduce your electric bill, you can also prevent a fire.
For more information on electricity and fire safety, visit our course on fire safety.
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