Each year there are roughly 28,000 fires caused by electrical issues in the U.S. leading to an average of 360 deaths. Understanding the areas of your home that can lead to electrical issues will help you avoid the devastation of a home fire. Here are three areas you can check for safety.
Condition of Cords and Plugs
Every appliance in your home large or small has a cord and plug. Checking the condition of the cords in your home will help you avoid potential safety issues. Plugs showing signs of wear such as kinking, fraying and cracks can prove dangerous for fires as well as potential electrocution. Any appliances showing signs of wear and tear on their cords need to be replaced or repaired. Check any of your long cords that have been stapled or nailed to ensure they have not been damaged. And if you buy any new items with cords do not staple or nail them as this is dangerous. Use extension cords or power bars for safer installation of cords and plugs that are the right length. Just remember that extension cords are not meant for permanent use and must never be over used. During the holidays check all lights and decorations for damaged cords and plugs as well and don’t over do it with extension cords.
Electrical Outlets
Your electrical outlets can also be a source of electrical fires. Make sure all of your outlets have proper covers and that there aren’t any exposed wires. With kids be sure that unused outlets have safety plugs installed. For major appliances ensure they are not plugged into multiple adaptors, power strips or damaged outlets. Make sure all bathroom and kitchen outlets that are used near water have the proper ground fault circuit interrupters. These are specifically designed for use near water to avoid shocks.
Circuit Breakers
Circuit breaker manufacturers for every application make different circuit breakers for different sized homes. You have to ensure that the amount of electricity running through your home matches your circuit breaker. As well, the fuses used in circuit breakers must be the right size intended by the circuit breaker manufacturers. Keep the area around your circuit breaker clear so it is easy to reach.
Paying attention to these electrical factors in your home will help you avoid electrical fires and shocks.
Every appliance in your home large or small has a cord and plug. Checking the condition of the cords in your home will help you avoid potential safety issues. For more details, visit the official website Breakeroutlet.com.
