Did you know that almost half of fire department calls report accidents caused by electricity? To be more precise, electricity isn’t the culprit, but people that neglect routine checks are.
As fall is getting closer, another regular inspection has to be done. We know exactly what there is to check. Do it diligently and carefully, and make sure to call professionals if all these wires don’t make any sense.
While there are many conditions that can be detected by someone who doesn’t know a lot about electrical applications, only a true pro electrician will notice the smaller, yet equally important, errors.
We’re going to use more appliances soon, so here are some recommendations.
1: Check All Plugs’ and Cords’ Condition and Placement
The first electrical safety tip concerns cords and plugs. You have to look for:
- Damage of any kind;
- Exposed wires;
- Broken parts or elements not in place.
Call a licensed electrician if something looks suspicious. If you don’t have experience, it’s better not to touch the wires.
Now, about the placement. Here are some guidelines that will help you understand if everything’s fine for fall:
- There have to be water-resistant extension cords in all areas in your house and outside where it gets dump;
- The cords shouldn’t be under carpets or near doors (you can close the door and damage the wire);
- Extension cords shouldn’t be used as permanent outlets. If you need some, it’s better to ask a pro to install them where you need;
- Every heavy-use appliance must be plugged into wall outlets.
2: Check All Appliances’ Condition and Placement
One of the essential electrical safety tips is to check all appliances, especially those responsible for heating. Make sure they are:
- Intact;
- Placed properly;
- Have an official seal from CSA, UL, or another lab.
As to the placement, don’t put any heating devices near flammable objects. This includes not only heaters but coffee machines, toasters, etc. Appliances a like toaster, hairdryer, kettle, etc. should be plugged off after use.
3: Check All Lighting in the House
Check your lamps, as you’re going to use them much more as the sun goes down earlier. See if all lamps are below the limit mentioned on the light itself. LED lights are an amazing solution since they are very effective, save power (and money), and aren’t as dangerous as other types.
Keep the lights at least 1 ft away from flammable items like paper, curtains, etc.
Bonus: Additional Precautions
Here are some additional electrical safety tips:
- Inspect your detectors to make sure they work properly for movement, smoke, and carbon monoxide;
- Inspect every portable heater you have and never use them in the bathroom;
- Check devices for outside use. If they aren’t suitable for that, consider buying other models.
Don’t neglect routine checks of electrical appliances in your house. Safety recommendations are given not to take your time from other important stuff. Specialists provide them to make sure every home is safe as the temperature goes down.
We want your golden autumn and cheerful winter to be warm and stress-free. So, go over the recommendations again and consider calling a professional to come over and inspect the house.
