Many electrical fires can be prevented by following some simple electricity safety tips. Below are 5 household electricity safety precautions every homeowner should know and follow. Always remember to ask a professional if you’re uncertain about the safety of an electrical outlet or appliance.
Check that you’re using the correct wattage in all your fixtures and appliances. Using the right bulbs can prevent electrical problems, so check all lamps, fixtures and appliances to ensure you’re using the correct wattage. If a light fixture has no wattage listed, use 60-watt bulbs or less. For unmarked ceiling fixtures, choose 25-watt bulbs.
Watch out for overloaded outlets to protect your home. Overloading an electrical outlet is a common cause of electrical problems. Check all outlets to ensure they are cool to the touch, have protective faceplates and are in proper working order
Replace or repair damaged electrical cords to keep your home safe. Damaged power cords are a serious residential electrical safety risk, and they are capable of causing both fires and electrocution. All power and extension cords should be checked regularly for signs of fraying and cracking, and they should then be repaired or replaced as needed.
Keep your used and unused cords tidy and secure to prevent damage. Keep stored cords away from children and pets (who may chew on or play with the cords). Try to avoid wrapping cords tightly around objects.
Be aware of heaters and water heaters to prevent potential accidents. Combustible items should be kept away from portable heaters and built-in furnaces. For furnace safety, store combustibles far away from any heating appliances
Electricity safety is important in any home. If you’re unsure about an electrical outlet or appliance, always ask ELECTRIC COOL GERALDTON to take a look and keep you and your family safe.
For professional help with electrical safety in your home, contact our Geraldton electrical services team for expert advice and a free quote.
The key electrical safety tips are to avoid overloaded outlets, replace damaged cords, use appliances correctly and keep electrical equipment away from water and heat sources.
An outlet may be overloaded if it feels unusually warm, shows discolouration, produces a burning smell or regularly trips the circuit breaker, and it should be inspected by a licensed electrician.
Yes, damaged electrical cords can cause electric shock, short circuits or fires, so frayed, cracked or exposed cords should be replaced rather than used.
Contact a licensed Geraldton electrician if you notice sparks, burning smells, damaged outlets, repeated breaker trips or any electrical issue you are not qualified to repair safely.