You have a lurking danger in your home, something you may not even think about. Almost everything in your home runs off of electricity, from your cell phone charger to your refrigerator. Without these items, how would you live your everyday life? Electricity is a blessing in the modern day home, however, it's also a large hazard if you're home isn't properly protected! Some of the most common hazards are also some of the most easily prevented!
- Water presence
This is such a no brainier, but also very overlooked. Your bathroom most likely has a GFCI outlet, which is fantastic, but bathrooms are not the only place where water could possibly cause electrocution. In the kitchen, in the garage, and any outlet that could be close to a wet floor; all of these should be GFCI outlets as a precaution. - Extension cords
Extension cords are handy when you can't reach an outlet, however they should never be used as a permanent solution. In fact, when used improperly, extension cords can cause shock hazards. Cheaply made extension cords can cause fire hazards as well! The best thing to do is install another outlet. - Exposed outlets
Do you have children in your home? If so, investing a few dollars in outlet covers may be the best money you spend all month! Putting plug covers over unused outlets prevents small objects from being jammed into your outlets. - Leaving appliances plugged in
Sure, you use your toaster every day, or your microwave. But the majority of appliances need to be unplugged after every use. This includes hair dryers, and cell phone chargers. Though they may not use much electricity, they do have current flowing through them. These currents mean that electrical fires are possible. - Using high wattage bulbs
Using a 100-watt bulb in a lamp that calls for a 60-watt bulb may seem harmless, but in fact it can cause a large electrical hazard, by melting wires and possibly starting an electrical fire! Always be sure to use the correct wattage.
These are just a few of the most common electrical hazards that we hear of on a daily basis…but there are more. Is your home safe? Call John’s Electric today for a complete whole home electrical safety inspection.
