Electricity is an essential part of modern life, but it can also be a significant safety hazard if not handled properly. At Burbank Electric Company, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our customers. This blog post will outline some essential electrical safety practices to help you keep your home safe and prevent electrical accidents.

Electrical Safety Practices

1. Regular Inspections:

  • Visual Inspections: Regularly inspect electrical cords and appliances for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires, cracked insulation, or loose connections.
  • Professional Inspections: Schedule regular electrical safety inspections by a qualified electrician. They can identify potential hazards and recommend necessary repairs or upgrades.

2. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs):

  • Importance: GFCIs are essential safety devices that quickly shut off power in the event of a ground fault, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock.
  • Installation: Install GFCIs in all areas where water is present, such as bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor outlets.

3. Circuit Breaker Safety:

  • Never Overload Circuits: Avoid overloading circuits by plugging too many appliances into a single outlet.
  • Reset Circuit Breakers Correctly: If a circuit breaker trips, identify the cause of the overload and address the issue before resetting the breaker.
  • Replace Faulty Circuit Breakers: Replace any faulty or tripped circuit breakers promptly with the correct type and amperage.

4. Electrical Cord Safety:

  • Avoid Overloading Extension Cords: Do not overload extension cords by plugging in multiple high-wattage appliances.
  • Inspect Cords Regularly: Check cords for signs of wear and tear, such as fraying, cracking, or exposed wires. Replace any damaged cords immediately.
  • Avoid Running Cords Under Rugs or Carpets: This can damage the cords and increase the risk of overheating.
  • Keep Cords Away from Heat Sources: Avoid placing cords near heat sources, such as radiators, stoves, or fireplaces.

5. Childproofing:

  • Outlet Covers: Use safety plugs to cover unused electrical outlets to prevent children from inserting objects into them.
  • Cord Management: Keep electrical cords out of reach of children to prevent them from chewing on them or pulling them.
  • Teach Children Electrical Safety: Educate children about the dangers of electricity and instruct them to never touch outlets or cords with wet hands.

6. Appliance Safety:

  • Unplug Appliances When Not in Use: Unplug appliances when not in use to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
  • Avoid Using Damaged Appliances: Do not use any appliances with damaged cords or other signs of wear and tear.
  • Keep Appliances Clean: Clean appliances regularly to prevent dust and debris buildup, which can increase the risk of overheating.

7. Outdoor Electrical Safety:

  • Beware of Power Lines: Never attempt to trim trees or shrubs near power lines. Contact your local utility company for assistance.
  • Inspect Outdoor Electrical Equipment: Regularly inspect outdoor electrical equipment, such as patio lights and outdoor outlets, for signs of damage.
  • Disconnect Outdoor Lighting During Storms: Disconnect outdoor lighting during severe weather to prevent electrical hazards.

8. Professional Electrical Work:

  • Hire a Qualified Electrician: For any major electrical work, such as rewiring, installing new fixtures, or adding new circuits, always hire a qualified and licensed electrician.
  • Regular Electrical Inspections: Schedule regular electrical safety inspections to identify and address potential hazards before they become serious problems.

9. Emergency Preparedness:

  • Know Your Electrical Panel: Familiarize yourself with the location of your electrical panel and how to shut off the main power supply in case of an emergency.
  • Have a Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher readily available and know how to use it in case of an electrical fire.
  • Develop an Emergency Plan: Create and practice an emergency evacuation plan in case of a fire or other electrical emergency.

By following these electrical safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of electrical accidents in your home and create a safer environment for your family.

Remember, If you have any concerns about the electrical safety of your home, contact Burbank Electric. Our team of experienced electricians can provide expert advice and perform any necessary repairs or upgrades.