Electricity is a useful and amazing tool but it can also be extremely dangerous. In the wrong situation, it can cause electrocution, fire, and death. When it comes to your home, it is important to make sure that you do certain things in order to keep your family and house safe. It is especially vital if you have children, as they tend to have a lesser understanding of the dangers posed by electricity.
Here are a few safety precautions you can take to avoid accidents.
Pools, Hot Tubs, and Ponds
People are severely injured and die every year from electrical-related pool and hot tub accidents, but there are several things you can do to limit the possibility.
Inspections—Make sure that you hire a professional electrician to inspect your pool or hot tub at least once every year or two. Not only can they spot potential problems, they can also ensure that you’re up to local and national codes.
Consider location—All wires and junction boxes should be further than five feet away from your pool.
Devices—Using cord-powered electronic devices in or near a pool can be a fatal mistake. Be sure to use batteries instead of cords.
Watch the weather—Don’t be anywhere near a pool during a lightning storm.
Power lines
Power lines can present a number of dangers, especially if your kids enjoy climbing trees. Never allow your children to climb trees that are near a power line, and if you do notice any trees that are too close to a line, contact your local utilities to find out about having them trimmed.
Basically, the rule to follow is that you and your children should treat every power line as if it is dangerous, and avoid touching them at all costs.
Cords and Outlets
It is a good idea that outdoor outlets have weatherproof covers, and if you have children you should seriously consider getting covers for your indoor outlets as well. And always plug major appliances into grounded outlets to avoid the risk of fire.
When it comes to any sort of electrical cord—extension or otherwise—never plug in one that has been frayed or damaged. When using an extension cord outside, be sure that it is specifically intended for outdoor use. Indoor cords are not made to stand up against weather, and each year thousands of homes burn down due to improper extensive cord use.
Circuit Breakers and Fuse Boxes
Be sure that everyone in your family knows the locations of all circuit or fuse boxes in your home, and how to turn them on and off safely in the event of an emergency.
It is generally a good idea to have an electrician perform an electrical safety inspection every two years or so, just in case time or the elements have caused damage to your homes wiring. A simple inspection can help avoid a variety of dangerous conditions.
When it comes right down to it, electrical safety is all about using good judgment and common sense. If you have any questions or concerns about electrical safety, call Electric Express for advice and assistance.