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Electrical Safety: Understanding The Dangers

3/28/2017

14 Comments

 
​Electricity is an essential part of our lives. However, it has the potential to cause great harm. Electrical systems will function almost indefinitely, if properly installed and not overloaded or physically abused. Electrical fires in our homes claim the lives of 485 Americans each year and injure 2,305 more. Some of these fires are caused by electrical system failures and appliance defects, but many more are caused by the misuse and poor maintenance of electrical appliances, incorrectly installed wiring, and overloaded circuits and extension cords.  
Some safety tips to remember:
  • Never use anything but the proper fuse to protect a circuit.
  • Find and correct overloaded circuits. 
  • Never place extension cords under rugs. 
  • Outlets near water should be GFCI-type outlets. 
  • Don't allow trees near power lines to be climbed. 
  • Keep ladders, kites, equipment and anything else away from overhead power lines. 
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Electrical Panels
 
Electricity enters the home through a control panel and a main switch where one can shut off all the power in an emergency. These panels are usually located in the basement. Control panels use either fuses or circuit breakers. Install the correct fuses for the panel. Never use a higher-numbered fuse or a metallic item, such as a penny. If fuses are used and there is a stoppage in power, look for the broken metal strip in the top of a blown fuse. Replace the fuse with a new one marked with the correct amperage. Reset circuit breakers from "off" to "on." Be sure to investigate why the fuse or circuit blew. Possible causes include frayed wires, overloaded outlets, or defective appliances. Never overload a circuit with high-wattage appliances. Check the wattage on appliance labels. If there is frayed insulation or a broken wire, a dangerous short circuit may result and cause a fire. If power stoppages continue or if a frayed or broken wire is found, contact an electrician.
 
Outlets and Extension Cords
Make sure all electrical receptacles or outlets are three-hole, grounded outlets. If there is water in the area, there should be a GFCI or ground-fault circuit interrupter outlet. All outdoor outlets should be GFCIs. There should be ample electrical capacity to run equipment without tripping circuit breakers or blowing fuses. Minimize extension cord use. Never place them under rugs. Use extension cords sparingly and check them periodically. Use the proper electrical cord for the job, and put safety plugs in unused outlets.
Electrical Appliances
Appliances need to be treated with respect and care. They need room to breathe. Avoid enclosing them in a cabinet without proper openings, and do not store papers around them. Level appliances so they do not tip. Washers and dryers should be checked often. Their movement can put undue stress on electrical connections. If any appliance or device gives off a tingling shock, turn it off, unplug it, and have a qualified person correct the problem. Shocks can be fatal. Never insert metal objects into appliances without unplugging them. Check appliances periodically to spot worn or cracked insulation, loose terminals, corroded wires, defective parts and any other components that might not work correctly. Replace these appliances or have them repaired by a person qualified to do so.
 
Electrical Heating Equipment
Portable electrical heating equipment may be used in the home as a supplement to the home heating system. Caution must be taken when using these heating supplements. Keep them away from combustibles, and make sure they cannot be tipped over. Keep electrical heating equipment in good working condition. Do not use them in bathrooms because of the risk of contact with water and electrocution. Many people use electric blankets in their homes. They will work well if they are kept in good condition. Look for cracks and breaks in the wiring, plugs and connectors. Look for charred spots on both sides. Many things can cause electric blankets to overheat. They include other bedding placed on top of them, pets sleeping on top of them, and putting things on top of the blanket when it is in use. Folding the blankets can also bend the coils and cause overheating. 

 
Children
Electricity is important to the workings of the home, but can be dangerous, especially to children. Electrical safety needs to be taught to children early on. Safety plugs should be inserted in unused outlets when toddlers are in the home. Make sure all outlets in the home have face plates. Teach children not to put things into electrical outlets and not to chew on electrical cords. Keep electrical wiring boxes locked. Do not allow children to come in contact with power lines outside. Never allow them to climb trees near power lines, utility poles or high tension towers.
 
Electricity and Water
A body can act like a lightning rod and carry the current to the ground. People are good conductors of electricity, particularly when standing in water or on a damp floor. Never use any electrical appliance in the tub or shower. Never touch an electric cord or appliance with wet hands. Do not use electrical appliances in damp areas or while standing on damp floors. In areas where water is present, use outlets with GFCIs. Shocks can be fatal.
 
Animal Hazards
Mice and other rodents can chew on electrical wires and damage them. If rodents are suspected or known to be in the home, be aware of the damage they may cause, and take measures to get rid of them.
 
Outside Hazards
There are several electrical hazards outside the home. Be aware of overhead and underground power lines. People have been electrocuted when an object they are moving has come in contact with the overhead power lines. Keep ladders, antennae, kites and poles away from power lines leading to the house and other buildings. Do not plant trees, shrubs or bushes under power lines or near underground power lines. Never build a swimming pool or other structure under the power line leading to your house. Before digging, learn the location of underground power lines.
Do not climb power poles or transmission towers. Never let anyone shoot or throw stones at insulators. If you have an animal trapped in a tree or on the roof near electric lines, phone your utility company. Do not take a chance of electrocuting yourself. Be aware of weather conditions when installing and working with electrical appliances. Never use electrical power tools or appliances with rain overhead or water underfoot. Use only outdoor lights, fixtures and extension cords. Plug into outlets with a GFCI. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see a downed power line, call the electric company, and warn others to stay away. If a power line hits your car while you are in it, stay inside unless the car catches fire. If the car catches fire, jump clear without touching metal and the ground at the same time.
 
MORE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS :
  • Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
  • Hire an InterNACHI inspector. InterNACHI inspectors must pass rigorous safety training and are knowledgeable in the ways to reduce the likelihood of electrocution.
  • Frayed wires can cause fires. Replace all worn, old and damaged appliance cords immediately.
  • Use electrical extension cords wisely and don't overload them.
  • Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters; pay special care to electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
  • Don't allow children to play with or around electrical appliances, such as space heaters, irons and hair dryers.
  • Keep clothes, curtains and other potentially combustible items at least 3 feet from all heaters.
  • If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
  • Never overload extension cords or wall sockets. Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch, as well as lights that flicker. Use safety closures to childproof electrical outlets.
  • Check your electrical tools regularly for signs of wear. If the cords are frayed or cracked, replace them. Replace any tool if it causes even small electrical shocks, overheats, shorts out or gives off smoke or sparks.
In summary, household electrocution can be prevented by following the tips offered in this guide and by hiring an InterNACHI inspector.
14 Comments
Wendy link
9/29/2019 11:06:56 pm

Thank you so much, It is very educational. You guys are doing a very excellent job, saving peoples lives, for those who read. God luck!

Reply
Jenna Hunter link
10/24/2019 06:12:25 pm

My cousin is having some trouble with her house electricity and she thinks that it has something to do with her underground wires. It could be really nice for her to be able to get a qualified professional to help her find out what is wrong with her home. I'll be sure to tell her that she should try and fins where the underground lines are so that she can make sure that she doesn't plant any trees or bushes near it.

Reply
Vivian Black link
2/4/2020 07:28:38 pm

I love that you talked about children and how they should be protected against any safety risks. My husband and I are looking for a circuit breaker panel installation service that can help us childproof our electrical system at the same time. We will keep these tips in mind as we search for a professional that can help us best.

Reply
Bob link
5/25/2020 08:58:29 pm

That would be pretty annoying if rats chewed up my electrical wires. Lately, my house has been losing power every few hours. I'll have to get an electrician to check for chew marks.

Reply
Rebecca Gardner link
7/10/2020 01:19:48 pm

Thanks for explaining that light switches need to be looked at by a professional if they're too hot to touch to maintain safety. I was surprised at how hot the light switch in my closet when I turned it off after doing some organizing this morning. I was thinking about looking for some DIY videos about light switch repair, but your article helped convince me that hiring an electrician for the repairs would be worth the cost.

Reply
East Auckland Electrician link
7/15/2020 08:56:10 am

The main hazards of working with electricity are: electric shock and burns from contact with live parts. Injury from exposure to arcing, fire from faulty electrical equipment or installations... I appreciate your safety tips! They offer same information here Bencableelectrical.co.nz one must check them also.

Reply
Tiger Tails link
7/17/2020 03:29:34 am

This is really appreciated that you have presented this data over here, I love all the information shared. It will be very helpful to understand the electrical dangers and safety... This is a lovely and informative post… Great to find Mitchellelectrical.nz which has same kind of wonderful tips, if possible then visit.

Reply
Greg Hampton link
8/5/2020 09:26:54 am

I like what you said about not using anything but the right fuse for a circuit. My sister wants to make sure that her home is electrically safe in the coming weeks. I'll share this information with her so that she can look into her options for professionals who can help her with this.

Reply
Smart Home Automation Auckland link
8/21/2020 05:26:06 am

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Electrician Kapiti Coast link
8/21/2020 07:32:39 am

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Bandsaw Repairs link
8/25/2020 01:12:11 am

It is a beautiful article stating about the electrical safety understanding the dangers.Anyone searching for same topic may find their shelter here. I am sure many people will come to read this in future. Great blog indeed, will visit again future to read more!!If you are looking same kind of valuable information, then can also visit Energysmith.co.nz

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Data Cabling Companies Auckland link
9/2/2020 10:11:33 am

This is a brilliant post, thank you for sharing these great tips on electrical safety understanding the. I think you are right with mentioning the relevant information with of us. I am sure many people will come to read this in future.

Reply
megan alder link
9/24/2020 02:10:13 pm

We've always been taught the risks of electricity since we were children, but it's always good to learn more. I found it very interesting to know that is safer to never place extension cord under rugs, as well as not using anything else than a fuse to protect a circuit. There are some electrical issues going on in my house that I'd like to fix, but will definitely start looking for a professional.

Reply
Electrician Waimakariri link
11/18/2020 04:43:05 am

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