Loss of life and Property can occur from electrical hazards in your home. Avoiding these electrical hazards will mean improving electrical safety in the home. Here are 9 ways to improve electrical safety in your home.
1. Regular Inspections
Ensure to regularly inspect and troubleshoot your home’s electrical system to identify signs of damage where or potential hazard. If any fault is discovered it is advisable to address it immediately
2. Upgrade Electrical Panels
Invest in more modern electrical panels that have upgraded liability and safety features. Your home’s electrical panel must be able to accommodate modern electrical demands and have a high standard of safety.
3. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)
Consider installing GFCI outlets in areas where water is present, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces. GFCIs can detect ground faults and quickly shut off power to prevent electric shock hazards
4. Use Tamper-Resistant Outlets
For homes with children living in them, it is advisable to use tamper-resistant outlets which are designed with shutters that prevent foreign objects from being inserted into the sockets.
5. Limit Extension Cord Use
Extension codes and power strips have the potential of causing fire hazards if overloaded or used improperly, therefore, it is advisable to minimize the use of these extension cords. A more viable option is the installation of extra power outlets or the use of surge protectors in the home.
6. Unplug Unused Appliances
Always unplug appliances that are not currently in use. This simple action will significantly improve electrical safety in the home and save energy costs.
7. Properly Maintain Appliances:
Be vigilant enough to know when your appliances need maintenance. The easiest way to achieve proper maintenance of your appliance is to conduct regular inspections and clean your appliances regularly.
8. Install Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms are safety devices that provide any warning of potential fire or gas hazards. Having this device installed in the home will improve safety from electrical fires
9. Educate Your Family
Establish clear guidelines for using electrical equipment and encourage everyone in the household to prioritize safety. Additionally, Teach children about the dangers of playing with electrical outlets and appliances, and instruct them on how to safely use electrical devices.
Safety from electrical hazards not only protects your family but also provides peace of mind. To improve electrical safety in your homes, implement these nine simple strategies.