Electrical Hazards Of A Typical Home
Modern households rely heavily on electricity-powered devices and appliances for a smooth and comfortable life. As electricity is very commonplace in our lives, we often forget the potential hazards that accompany its improper use. Electrical threats are real and often lead to severe injuries, property damage, and even deaths.
Homeowners can prevent or reduce the possibility of electrical accidents by correctly identifying the potential hazards and hiring an electric company for assistance. The knowledge of various dangers the use of electricity poses and ensuring safety precautions help in eliminating the potential risks.
Read on to find out the most common electrical hazards found in a typical US household and ways to avoid them to create a safe home environment for yourself and the family.
Old or defective wiring
One of the most common and dangerous electrical risks in a home is old or damaged wires or poor wiring connections. Faulty wiring is among the leading causes of electrical issues. Look around the home for wiring hazards like loose connections, overheated wires, chewed-up electrical wires, frayed appliances and cords, pinched wires, and cracked insulation. Hire a licensed electrician to check the home wiring regularly for repair or replacement needs.
Improper use or overuse of extension cords
People often use extension cords to plug in multiple devices at once. Avoid using too many heavy-duty appliances simultaneously to prevent overloading. Extension cords are only for temporary use and should not work as a substitute for additional power outlets. Also, place them carefully to avoid injuries due to accidental tripping. It is dangerous to use frayed, loose, or faulty extension cords or leave unused receptacles uncovered. Always use the correct extension cord based on its use.
Water
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination and should never come into contact with one another. Avoid installing electrical outlets close to the water source in bathrooms or kitchens and use GFCI outlets if it is unavoidable. Store electronics away from the pool, sink, or shower as failing to do so can lead to shocks, severe injuries, or electrocution.
Lightbulbs
Most people do not consider lightbulbs as an electrical hazard. However, removing the light bulb without turning off the switch or with wet hands, placing light bulbs near flammable materials, or using light bulbs with more wattage than what a fixture can handle poses the risk of electric shock or overloading. Use lightbulbs properly to prevent them from becoming an electrical hazard.
Unprotected electrical outlets
Households with young babies, toddlers, and pets should remain extra careful. Kids are curious by nature, and they may put their fingers or other objects into the outlet within their reach. They may also pull an appliance down on themselves using an available electrical cord. Use plastic closures to cover wall sockets they can access or tamper-resistant receptacles and keep appliance cords far from their reach.
There are many potential electrical hazards in a home. Attempting DIY wiring or other electrical repair work poses a significant safety risk. Always hire a licensed electric company to fix all electrical problems and contact them for more tips on keeping the home safe from common electrical hazards.
Zimmerman Electric is here to serve your residential and commercial electrical needs throughout the Phoenix Valley metro area. Call us today if you need electrical work performed 602-497-3365.
