While we might see funny cartoons of beloved characters sticking their fingers in an electrical socket, only to have their hair stand on end, making them look silly, the truth is that electrical safety is no joke. Every year, there are nearly 1,000 fatalities related to electrical injuries. And, there are about 30,000 non-fatal shock incidents each year. Those are some sizeable numbers.
That’s why we want to share some important electrical safety tips for homeowners.
Keep Your Home (and Family) Safe with These 10 Electrical Safety Tips
At X, we want you and your family to be safe. And, we want your home to be a safe place to live, too. The U.S. Fire Administration website indicates that in 2022 alone, there were 26,100 fires, 185 deaths, 850 injuries, and an estimated $1.49 million in losses related to residential building electrical malfunction fires. Again, no laughing matter.
Here are some tips to help you avoid becoming one of these scary statistics.
1. Prevent Overloaded Outlets
Overloading outlets is a common cause of electrical fires. Imagine an outlet like a busy intersection; too many cars (or in this case, appliances) can cause a jam. The same goes for your electrical outlets. Using extension cords or power strips can be helpful, but be cautious not to overload them. Think of it like cooking with too many crockpots on one counter; eventually, the counter can’t handle the weight. Spread out your appliances and avoid using multiple high-wattage devices on the same outlet.
2. Replace or Repair Damaged Electrical Cords
Damaged electrical cords are a significant hazard. If you notice any fraying, cracking, or other signs of wear and tear, it’s time to replace or repair the cord. Exposed wires can lead to electrical shocks or fires. Inspect your cords regularly and handle them with care to keep them in good condition.
3. Unplug Unused Appliances
Unplugging unused appliances is a simple yet effective way to prevent potential hazards and save a bit on your energy bill. Appliances left plugged in can still draw power and pose a risk if they malfunction. By unplugging them when not in use, you reduce the risk of electrical fires and save on electricity.
4. Follow Manufacturer Specifications
Always follow the manufacturer’s specifications for all electrical items and appliances. This includes proper usage, maintenance, and recommended load capacities. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to overheating, electrical shorts, and other dangerous situations. Refer to the user manual or the manufacturer’s website for detailed instructions.
5. Keep Water and Electricity Separate
Water and electricity don’t mix. Keep all electrical appliances—curling irons, hair dryers, coffee makers, etc.—and outlets away from common water sources like sinks, bathtubs, and pools. In areas where water and electricity are close, use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. These devices are designed to shut off the power if they detect an imbalance in the electrical current.
6. Clean Exhaust Fans Regularly
Exhaust fans help remove moisture and odors from your home, but they can accumulate dust and debris over time, causing them to overheat. Regularly clean your exhaust fans to help them operate efficiently and safely. An overheated fan can be a fire hazard, especially if it’s clogged with lint or dust.
7. Use Proper Wattage for Light Fixtures
Using the correct wattage for your light fixtures is super important. Exceeding the recommended wattage can cause overheating and potentially start a fire. Always check the fixture’s rating and use bulbs that match or are below the maximum wattage. When in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
8. Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in the event of a fire. We suggest you install smoke alarms on each level of your home, inside each bedroom, and outside sleeping areas. So, if you live in a two-story home, you should have one in the basement, one on the main level, and one upstairs, plus in each bedroom and main room of the home (i.e., living room, family room, kitchen).
Does this seem like overkill to you? Trust us, it’s not. Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year—many homeowners do this around the first of the year to avoid forgetting. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
9. Educate Your Family on Electrical Safety
Help all family members, including children, to understand basic electrical safety. Explain to your kids the risks of touching electrical outlets, cords, or appliances with wet hands. And, make sure they know to tell you of any damaged cords or appliances. Awareness and education can prevent accidents and save lives.
10. Schedule Regular Electrical Inspections
Having a licensed electrician inspect your home’s electrical system regularly can help identify potential hazards before they become serious issues. They can check for outdated wiring, overloaded circuits, and other safety concerns. Regular inspections keep your home’s electrical system up to code and functioning safely.
Need an Electrical Inspection?
If you are concerned about electrical safety in your home, a licensed inspector from X can come out and take a look. Contact us today.