National Electrical Safety Month: Protecting Yourself and Your Home
In recognition of National Electrical Safety Month, DLC reminds customers of everyday electrical hazards and how to stay safe indoors and outdoors.
Each year, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) dedicates the month of May to promoting electrical safety. According to the ESFI, an estimated 51,000 residential fires are caused by an electrical failure or malfunction, resulting in approximately 500 deaths and 1,400 injuries totaling more than $1.3 billion in property damage.
Whether you rent or own your home, electrical safety should be a priority. ESFI has an educational library of resources for assisting homeowners, consumers, older adults and children on electrical safety.
Follow these tips to help keep your home and family safe:
Extension Cord Safety
When improperly used, extension cords can overheat and cause fires. More than 3,000 house fires are due to extension cord misuse, causing roughly 50 fatalities and 300 injuries each year.
- Don’t plug extension cords into one another or overload them.
- Check the cord for the proper rating for its intended use.
- Inspect for cracks, frays, loose wires and connections.
- Do not nail or staple cords to walls or baseboards.
- Keep all outdoor extension cords clear of snow and water.
- Never use three-prong plugs with outlets that only have two slots.
- Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
It is crucial to prioritize safety when it comes to electricity. Even your own backyard can present unique challenges and electrical hazards.
- Before planting trees near a power line, speak with a professional to ensure there is enough space for them to grow. You can also view DLC’s guide that follows the “right tree, right place” approach to landscaping near power lines.
- Be informed about underground power lines before you dig. Remember to always call 8-1-1 before digging.
- Install waterproof covers on outdoor outlets.
- Test your carbon monoxide alarms monthly.
- Never use an indoor extension cord outside.
- Use containers to prevent exposure or water damage when storing electrical products in the garage.
While electricity enhances our modern conveniences, it’s important to understand how to properly manage electronic devices to prevent fires or accidents and create peace of mind.
- Unplug appliances when not in use to save energy and reduce the risk of fire or shock.
- Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip.
- Never run cords under rugs, doors or windows.
- Make sure cords aren’t a tripping hazard.
- Keep papers and other combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters and other heat sources.
- Do not try to repair damaged extension cords.
- Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years.
Utilize Home Safety Checklists
Simple checklists can help you identify and correct electrical and fire hazards in your home before an emergency occurs.
- Check to make sure your switches and outlets are working properly.
- Switches and outlets should not be warm to the touch.
- Note any discoloration from heat buildup.
- Listen for unusual cracking, sizzling or buzzing noises coming from outlets and switches.
- Check for loose-fitting plugs that can cause overheating and fires.
If you aren’t completely certain how to tackle a project involving electricity, don’t try it! Contact a professional electrician instead to protect yourself and your family.