Tips on Electrical Safety
We rely on electricity to light our homes, keep our food hot or cold, run our appliances, charge our phones, and so much more. Electricity, like many things we use so often, is sometimes taken for granted and overlooked as something that could potentially be very hazardous. It's important to know and practice proper safety when it comes to something as deadly as electricity. Does this Spark an idea?
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When Doing Electrical Repairs
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Make sure the power is off. Shut off the breakers in the breaker box. To make extra sure, use a tester before touching any wiring. Never touch bare wiring with any part of your body. Use non-conductive shoes and gloves when working with electricity. When working with tools, be sure that the tools are properly insulated and do not have metal handles. Also, be sure to never work on electrical repairs that are in a wet area.
General Electrical Safety in the Home
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Even when wires are not exposed, electricity can still be very dangerous. Keep all electrical devices away from parts of the home that use water on a regular basis such as bath tubs, showers and sinks. When using things like hair dryers or curlers in the bathroom, make sure the area around you is dry, and be sure to unplug the device when you are done. Electrical devices can cause sparks, especially if they're knocked around or become broken. These sparks are hot enough to start fires on carpet, curtains, clothes, bed sheets and the like. Be sure all running electrical devices are in a safe and stable place.
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General Electrical Safety outside the Home
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One of the most threatening electrical hazards outside of the home is a downed power line. You are unable to turn off the power to these lines and can be killed if you come in contact with them. If you find yourself close to a downed power line, leave the area immediately and call 9-1-1. If a lot of people are around the power line, try to help by letting everyone know they need to stay away.
Children and Electrical Safety
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Many times, children are not aware of the dangers of electricity. They can sometimes find it intriguing, sparking their curiosity. To prevent children from playing with power outlets, find and purchase outlet covers for any outlets not in use. Also, be sure to teach your children not to play with cords that are occupying outlets. Older kids will also be curious with electrical devices and will sometimes want to open them and take them apart. Teach your children not to do this as even unplugged devices can sometimes hold a current strong enough to cause harm.
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