Avoid Electrical Hazards and Practice Electrical Safety!
Electricity is one of the most dangerous things people encounter daily. It is incredibly convenient and such a huge part of people’s everyday lives, so they often forget the hazardous nature of it when electrical safety isn’t practiced. To maintain a safe relationship with electricity, people should follow a few simple rules or habits that will help keep themselves and their loved ones safe. Here are a few electrical safety tips in honor of National Electrical Safety Month.
Don’t Overload Circuits and Outlets
One of the most common electrical hazards is an overloaded circuit. Homeowners tend to want to plug in as many things as possible, but they end up with an overloaded outlet and circuit. Some of the major hazards of overloaded circuits are electric shock, damaged appliances and electronics, and fire hazards, so it’s crucial to avoid them.
To prevent overloaded circuits, it's important to avoid plugging in too many items into a single outlet or circuit. Follow the one outlet, one appliance rule. Additionally, be mindful of the wattage of appliances, as high-wattage items can overload circuits more easily. Regularly inspect the outlets and circuits for signs of overloading, such as flickering lights, tripped circuit breakers, or a burning smell. If these indicators are noticed, unplug some appliances and call an electrician to assess the situation. By following these tips, homeowners can help prevent electrical hazards and maintain a safe home environment.
Install Tamper Resistant Outlets
Also called childproof outlets, tamper-resistant outlets are beneficial in helping prevent accidental electric shock. They provide a shutter over the outlet openings that can only be removed by equal pressure on both sides of the outlet, made possible with the two prongs of a plug.
They prevent children, or anyone, from harming themselves by putting an object inside and getting an electrical shock. Homeowners may think that childproofing outlets only require plastic outlet caps, but these outlet covers can be removed and become a choking hazard for young children.
Don’t DIY, Call an Electrician
Because electricity is dangerous and often complex to work with, homeowners should not do their own electrical work and instead call an electrician after noticing signs of an electrical problem. Some common signs of electrical problems indicating they should call an electrician right away include:
- Burning smell
- Buzzing noise
- Electric shocks
- Flickering or dimming lights
- Hot-to-the-touch ceiling fixtures or outlets
- Circuit breaker trips frequently
- Outlets don’t work, are loose, or spark
About ICT Electric
ICT Electric has more than 30 years of experience serving the Rhinelander area. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time arrival, and trusted technicians. Call them for electrical repair and installation services in Rhinelander, WI.
