Electrical Safety

More than 700 people die in the U.S. each year in residential electrical fires, and there are an estimated 550 electrocution deaths nationwide. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), many of these accidents could have been prevented by taking a few electrical safety precautions.   

Remember the four R’s of electrical safety:

• RESPECT the power of electricity.
• READ and follow the operating instructions, which come with every electrical product.
• REPLACE worn or frayed electrical cords.
• RELOCATE appliance cords so that people don’t walk on them and children can’t pull on them.    

Plug into electrical safety   

• Outlets - avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances or plugs. Check for outlets with loose-fitting plugs, which can overheat and lead to fire. Replace missing or broken wall plates, and make sure safety covers are on all unused outlets accessible to children.
• Plugs - while they should fit securely, plugs should never be forced into an outlet. If using three-prong plugs in two-conductor outlets, don't cut off the ground pin on the bottom. Instead, use a grounded two-prong adapter.
• Cords - make sure cords do not overheat, and examine them for signs of wear and tear. Make sure they are not cracked or frayed.
• Extension cords - make sure cords do not overheat. Never use an extension cord with more than one appliance.
• Appliances - keep electrical appliances away from damp and hot surfaces. If an appliance repeatedly blows a fuse or trips a circuit breaker-or if it has emitted sparks, unplug it and have it repaired, or replace it.
• Electrical equipment- make sure your entertainment and computer equipment is in good condition and working properly. Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs and connectors. Use a high quality surge protector.
• Light bulbs - check the wattage of all bulbs in lighting fixtures to make sure they aren't too high for the fixture. Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely; loose bulbs may overheat.
• Fuses and circuit breakers - use the correct current rating for the circuit, and always replace a fuse with the correct-size fuse.
• Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) - use in any area where water and electricity could come into contact. They constantly monitor electricity flowing in the circuit to detect a change of current. Test all GFCIs regularly.
• Water - water and electricity don't mix. Don't place any electrical appliance near water. Appliances used near water should be unplugged when not in use.  Electricity and water are a shocking combination.    

Water and electricity don't mix

• Electricity flows easily through water: Stay safe in the bathroom, kitchen, and outdoors by keeping electricity and water far apart. It can be a matter of life or death. 
• Electricity can flow through you more easily if you are standing in water or on a damp floor. Never use electrical appliances in wet conditions.   
• Power is still present even when an appliance is off. If an appliance falls in water, unplug it - do not grab it.   
• Do not immerse appliances in water to clean them. Unplug portable appliances before cleaning with a damp cloth.   
• Don’t touch faucets or stand on a damp floor while using an appliance or electrical switch.   
• Keep appliances away from sinks or tubs where they can accidentally fall in. Cords should never trail in water.   
• Water and electricity are necessary in running our household. Make the best of both by keeping them apart. 
• Teach children the hazards of water and electricity.   

Check out the Web site for the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) at www.esfi.org for additional information on home and work safety.