Ways to Prevent Electrical Hazards

1.      Keep water away - Ensure that water is nowhere near electrical components/appliances. And even if they are in close proximity, keep safety measures in place to prevent any contact. If any appliance is damaged by water, cut off the power supply to that circuit and then unplug and dry the appliance. Let an electrician inspect it before reuse. 

2.      Monitor your appliances closely – If an appliance is repeatedly causing problems like short circuit, blown fuse, shocks, etc. then don’t just repair the damage done and ignore the possibility that an appliance may be the root cause. Immediately unplug that device and let an engineer inspect it.

3.      Use only the right size circuit breakers and fuses – Fuses and circuit breakers work to prevent electrical and fire hazards properly only when their size and wattage rating match the technical specifications of their circuits. When buying yourself, read the packages carefully and if you’re not sure then let an expert/electrician take a look at your panel box and label on the panel itself the right ratings for future reference.

4.      Put outlet covers in place – Power outlet covers prevent babies and kids from inserting their fingers and other objects into the socket holes, which can lead to electric shocks. Opt for wall panels with built-in retractable covers that block the socket when not in use.

5.      Use extension cords carefully or avoid using them altogether – They might be of huge convenience extending a socket to run multiple devices where it’s not possible, such devices put extra and sometimes undue load on the wires. Overloaded circuits lead to wire damage and even fire. If you do have to use one, make sure the device is capable of handling the amount of power that the plugged in utilities are drawing in, in total.

6.      Replace broken or missing socket plates – Socket wall plates are not meant just for improved aesthetics, they are functional in the sense that they provide protection from open wires and switch machinery. Although not a big risk when there’s light, lack of one may prove to be fateful when you’re trying to locate a switch in the dark and accidentally touch the live wires.

7.      Pick right bulb for the right lamp – Check the lamp’s wattage specification, before buying light bulbs for them. Mismatched light accessories can lead to overloaded wiring and even fire.

8.      Take care of wires – Wires are made to be able to handle daily wear and tear, but take care that they’re not being placed in a potentially damaging environment. Never nail them down, twist or turn them too much, ensure they’re not squeezed by the furniture, etc. Excessive pressure can damage the wire in a way which can lead to electrocution or electrical fire.

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Source: http://www.cableorganizer.com/articles/preventing-home-electrical-hazards.html