Most home electrical hazards are preventable with regular maintenance. Faulty, outdated, and improperly-installed electrical components not only interfere with the quality of electrical functions, but also are responsible for the majority of electrocutions and house fires. Updating your home’s electrical wiring system, replacing faulty components, and ensuring safe use of electrical appliances are imperative in the prevention of home electrical hazards.
Common Home Electrical Hazards
Whether you are moving into a new home or re-evaluating the electrical condition of your current residence, it’s important to keep in mind home electric hazards and take precautions to avoid them.
Faulty Wiring
Old, corroded wiring is one of the leading causes of house fires. Over time, the protective coating encasing electrical wires erodes, subjecting them (and you) to further damage. Exposed and damaged electrical wires increase chances of a spark igniting in the walls of your home and causing a fire.
Electrical Sources Near Water
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Bathrooms and kitchens are common areas for electrocution due to the increased use of electrical appliances near bathtubs and sinks. Never use an electrical appliance while running water, soaking in the bathtub, or in the vicinity of water. Also, be sure to thoroughly dry your hands before making contact with an electrical source. GFCI – or, ground-fault circuit interrupter – outlets should be installed in these areas for safety.
Outlets and Small Children
Small children sometimes stick objects into unprotected outlets or chew on electrical cords. The use of power strip covers keeps electrical cords out of sight and inaccessible to curious toddlers. Additionally, installing tamper-resistant receptacles to replace all existing receptacles that do not have this feature. Taking these measures to childproof your home greatly reduces your child’s risk of fatal injuries related to electrical shock.
Most importantly, the best action you can take to avoid home electrical hazards is to contact an experienced residential electrician to address any concerns. If you are looking for residential electrical service in Finksburg, contact Tim Kyle Electric. We are proud to have been named “Carroll’s Best” for 2018 by the citizen’s of Carroll County, Maryland.