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Electrical Safety Tips for the Home

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When it comes to home safety, knowing a few home electrical tips is important to have on hand to ensure that you and your family are safe. Follow safety precautions when dealing with any electrical in your home to prevent any harm to you or to your home. We have compiled a list of some tips to remember when it comes to electrical safety in your home.

  • Whether you are fixing a light or simply changing the light bulb, never work with an energized system. This means turning off the switch to the light that you are changing. What would be even better, and what is recommended, is to completely turn off the connection to the light on your electric box.

  • For families, especially those with young children, should cover their unused outlets. This will help prevents kids from the possibility of electrocuting themselves.

  • Use the correct light bulb wattage. If you find that your light bulb burns out and you don't have the correct light bulb, you may find it tempting to to find any bulb type you have to replace it. It is important, however, to follow the manufacture's recommended wattage on the fixture.

  • Practice smart extension cord safety. Inspect your extension cords for broken connectors or any damage before using it. If you find that you have a damaged cord, don't try to fix it, replace it. Don't run extension cords through walls or through doorways as well as do not nail or staple cords to baseboards or walls. Use only surge protected power strips. And finally, don't overload your extension cord or power strip...this can be a fire hazard.

  • Inspect cords on electrical appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, to make sure they are properly grounded. Check that the cords are not frayed or damaged. If they are damaged, replace immediately. They should not be spliced or taped

  • Write the purpose of each circuit breaker or switch on the panel board. This will be very beneficial if you ever need to switch the breaker back on.

  • Never attempt a project that is beyond your skill level. Knowing when to call a professional may help to prevent electrical fires or injuries.

Finally, another good tip to always remember is to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. It is especially important if your detectors are hard-wired into your home's electrical system to make sure that the connection is intact and not damaged. Check your detectors at least twice a year to make sure they are in good working condition. Following these tips and using good judgement is key to being safe around electricity in your home.

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