Electrical Safety Tips

Electricity can be considered to be one of the boons that ushered in modernity. Without electricity it is difficult to fathom in which direction life would have taken as we have become dependent on it for our very survival. A blackout for an hour or even half an hour is enough to turn life topsy-turvy, as everything that makes life easier today, every convenience is more or less dependent on electricity. But like fire, electricity too is a very good servant, but a bad master. Every year, countless number of people suffer from electricity-related accidents and an increasing number of them result in death. Most often such accidents happen because simple safety norms have been overlooked. Despite the inherent risk, many people still are oblivious to the danger that simple electric products can pose if proper care is not taken. Therefore, it is imperative for everyone to know all the aspects of electrical safety. Listed below in the article are a few tips on electrical safety that can help you stay safe from any untoward electricity related accidents. Read further to know more.

Tips On Electrical Safety

Keep all the cords of appliances that are not in use at a safe place. Also, when not in use, always keep the appliances unplugged.
The electrical appliances must be kept away from water. So, don’t keep the appliances near the sink, tubs and dripping vents. Also, take care not to operate the appliances with wet hands.
Computers and televisions and other such systems that generate heat should be kept at places where there is good air circulation all around. So, do not drape anything over them.
Regularly check the cords for cracks and frays. Do not try to modify the plug. If the plug doesn’t go into the outlet, then simply use another outlet instead of taking out the third prong or forcing it into place.
Any unused outlets should be blocked. You can do this using a solid cover plate or child caps. The outlets should not be overloaded with power strips or multiple adapters. Also, keep the outlets secure so that it covers all wirings.
If the cord is warm to touch, then most probably it is defective. While inserting a plug if you see any sparks, then it means that there is some loose connections.
Make sure that the bulbs are screwed tightly or it will cause sparks and shorts. Before changing bulbs, turn off the fixture. Use correct wattage that is recommended for the fixture. If you use a high watt bulb that the fixture doesn’t support, then it will lead to heating.
In the lawns and gardens, you should keep the trees pruned so that it doesn’t interfere with the power lines above. You should also clear the areas where the power lines approach the house.
If any power lines are down, then you should avoid going near it and touching. It is better if you immediately contact the authorities.
Do not use and forbid the use of power cords for any other use than what it is intended for. Don’t use the cords as clothesline, leashes or ropes.
Remember that the use of extension cords should be as less as possible. Don’t treat it as permanent solution.
Do not insert bare wires into the outlets. Also, don’t buy low quality electrical products. Such products are more prone to accidents.

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