According to a study performed by the Australian Institute Of Health And Welfare, between 2014 and 2016, 73% of fatal electrocution cases happened at home.
Let that sink in.
In today’s technological world, we tend to take our plethora of electrical appliances for granted.
We let wires degrade, overload sockets, and forget to turn off our heated blankets, providing the potential for electrical accidents without even knowing it.
To help you protect your family, property, and possessions, here are our expert electricians’ top six tips for avoiding electrical accidents.
#1 Avoid Overloading Your Sockets
This puts your power points, and your entire electrical system, under significant stress and runs the risk of sparking an electrical fire.
One or two plugs are fine. And if you use extension cords, make sure only to buy ones with a fuse that will trip when they overload.
#2 Monitor And Maintain
Try to make a concerted effort to be more aware of its health – from your sockets to plugs, cords, and wires.
Keep an eye out for any scorched plugs or sockets, damaged or exposed wires, consistently flickering lights, and anything else out of the ordinary.
And if you do find any ominous signs, don’t get ahead of yourself. Call a local, licensed electrician like Copper Electrical to properly assess the risk and remedy it!
Our technicians have seen many preventable disasters and endeavor to not only educate homeowners about the signs but ensure they are dealt with before disaster strikes. Get in touch with us if you’re unsure about your socket health.
#3 Well Away From Water
Simply put, electricity and water (or any liquid) don’t mix.
This is especially important in your kitchen and bathrooms! Cables, plugs, wires, sockets, and electrical devices should be kept well away from any water and wet hands.
Pro tip: Avoid using electrical appliances while standing in water or filling up your kettle while it’s plugged in.
#4 Socket Safety
Sockets are the culprit for many electrical accidents. So to stay safe, you’ll need to be smart!
If you have small children, mentally disabled family members, or seniors living with dementia, put safety caps on all outlets while not in use.
Pro tip: Make sure to turn your sockets off at the wall before pulling plugs out directly from them – not by yanking it out from a distance.
#5 Too Hot To Handle
Don’t let any cables, especially those from appliances that are on, touch your hot stove, pans, toasters, and other heat-generating devices.
The protective covering will melt and expose the live wires within. And exposed wires pose risks for electrocution and electrical fires!
#6 Don’t Conceal Cords Under Carpets
Although unsightly, this poses a tripping hazard and prevents you from seeing the condition of your cords and cables!
Not to mention it won’t allow your cords to cool down after use.
Never forget how powerful electricity can be, nor how easily accidents can happen.
Unfortunately, our team at Copper Electrical has seen it all – which is precisely why we endeavor to educate the public about electrical safety.
Save for your satisfaction; your safety is our top priority!
Contact us today for home electrical safety inspections, safety switches, or simply some advice.