Do hidden dangers lurk behind the walls of your home?

Electricity is one of the leading causes of home fires, blamed for thousands of deaths and injuries and over $1 billion in property damage each year. Many electrocutions and home electrical fires can be prevented. Know how to look for signs of home wiring hazards and use electrical safety awareness to keep you and your family safe. Electricity is a powerful tool. Good safety habits are the best prevention against electrical hazards. Always call a certified electrician to do any wiring in your home.

Some Do’s and Don’ts of Electrical Safety

Do - Use receptacle outlet safety covers to minimize injuries to children.

Do - Follow manufacturer’s instructions when operating any electrical tool or appliance.

Do - Limit use of extension cords.  Extension cords are intended for temporary use only.

Do - Make sure that you do not overload an extension cord.

Do - Ensure light bulbs are the proper wattage for each lighting fixture.

Do - Have receptacles replaced if plugs do not fit tightly in the receptacle.

Do - Pull the plug, not the cord, when disconnecting an electrical device.

Do – Use only three-pronged extension cords when working outdoors.

Do -Make it a habit to turn off electric games and appliances when they're not in use.

Do not -overload outlets. Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers may indicate overloading.

Do not -use extension cords with space heaters or air conditioners and make sure your space heater will automatically shut off if tipped over.

Do not -keep cords near sources of water or heat.

Do not -place a cord under a carpet, through a doorway, or anywhere that it could be stepped on.

Being aware and making sure to use the above tips will help to minimize risk of fire and injury in your home.  Once again, always hire a certified electrician when repairing or installing wiring for your home.  Understanding how to look for signs of home wiring hazards and using electrical safety awareness will help to keep you and your family safe.