How to Keep Your Home Safe From Winter Electrical Hazards
When temperatures drop, space heaters and other warming devices come out in our homes. Don’t let an electrical accident happen to you. Here are some simple measures to take to ensure your home remains safe and free of winter electrical hazards.
Winter Home Safety Tips
The best way to avoid electrical hazards in your home this winter is to keep your eyes open for potential problems.
Inspect electrical appliances and equipment for any damage. If an appliance has been in storage for some time, give it a good dusting and cleaning before using it. Examine power cords for frays, kinks or cracking in the wire. Also, check the insulation protecting the wire.
Space heaters are a convenient way to heat up a small space. However, If they are not used properly, they can pose a fire risk. Keep items away from a space heater. Place furniture, decor, clothing and other objects at least three feet away. Turn off the heater if you leave the room. Unplug it if you are done.
Many people use electric blankets to heat up their sheets before crawling into bed. If you are one of them, take the following precautions. Limit use to 30 minutes at a time. Turn the blanket off before you go to sleep. Inspect the wiring for any damage. Don’t place heavy objects on top. Throw away blankets that are more than 10 years old.
Check life-saving home smoke alarms. Test them regularly and change the batteries when needed.
How to Avoid Outside Electrical Hazards
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) recommends taking the following precautions to protect yourself from electrical hazards.
Never touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report it. Do not drive through standing water containing downed power lines. Avoid contact with any overhead power lines during cleanup work. If electrical circuits or equipment are wet or near water, turn off the main breaker or fuse. Never enter standing water to access it.
If you see frayed wiring or sparks when you restore power, or smell a burning odor, shut off the main circuit breaker. Never operate electrical equipment while standing in water.
Never connect power generators to your home’s electrical circuits without approved, automatic-interrupt devices. If a generator is on line when electrical service is restored, it can become a major fire hazard.
Electrical hazards can cause burns, shocks and electrocutions. In some cases, they are fatal. Always be aware of your environment and make sure you follow all safety precautions when working with electricity. Your best option is to call a local electrician if you have any doubts.
How Electrical Injuries Occur
Common causes of electrical accidents include misuse of extension cords, improper use of electrical equipment, wet conditions, missing ground-fault protection, and lack of proper training. Faulty electrical outlets and aging appliances can also wreak havoc.
Handle Electrical Emergencies with Care
If you must handle an electrical emergency, there are steps to follow. Never touch someone under electrical shock as the current could easily move through you. Call emergency services immediately. When it is safe, turn off the main power source. Use a fire extinguisher if necessary and know how to use it.
Contact Us for all of Your Electrical NeedsThe professionals at CKElectric can handle all of your electrical projects, big or small. Need a service call? Our electricians can help you figure out why your outlets have stopped working or your panel keeps tripping. We serve Sykesville, Eldersburg, Frederick, and all of Central Maryland. Call us at 443-920-3078 or email us at info@ckelectricllc.com. We are happy to serve you!