Investing in Electrical Safety For Your Home
Investing in Electrical Safety For Your Home
Electricity is a major cause of home fires. While use of electric power has increased, electrical systems, particularly in homes built more than 20 years ago, have not kept up with the demand or the technology. Aged wiring, overloaded circuits, and worn outlets are among the hazards that can start fires and cause electrical shock.
Increasing electrical safety awareness and the use of safety technology will help reduce deaths, injuries and economic losses due to electrical hazards.
Most shocks and fires from electrical systems can be prevented. Have your electrical system inspected by a licensed electrician. Fix dangerous defects, install smoke detectors, arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs), ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), and check lighting and home appliances for wear and tear.
Have your house inspected if your home is 40 or more years old; if it is 10 or more years old and you've completed a major renovation or installed new major appliances; or if you're the new owner of a previously owned home.
Here are just a few hazards to look out for in your home system:
- Dim and flickering lights.
- Arcs and sparks - flashes of light or showers of sparks in your electrical system.
- Sizzles and buzzes - unusual sounds from your electrical system.
- Overheating - overheated wires can give off an odor of hot insulation; switchplates or receptacle covers are hot to the touch or discolored from heat buildup.
- Electrical shocks - any shock, even a mild tingle, may be warning of an electrical danger.