Each year, there are approximately 25,000 residential electrical fires in the United States. Sadly, most of them could have been prevented if the homeowners had taken certain safety precautions in regards electrical devices and outlets. In the following blog, we’ll outline some easy tips that you can implement to keep you and your family safe.
- Stop Overloading Outlets
Extension cords and power strips are a great solution when you need a little extra power, but your outlets were not designed to be overloaded. Circuits in every outlet are designed to transmit a certain amount of power, and overloading their capacity is one of the leading causes of residential house fires. The good news is, this particular situation is completely preventable. We recommend using devices with surge protectors, which have internal circuit breakers to sense a capacity issue immediately and shut the power down. If your family is consistently in need of additional power, it is recommended that you call a licensed electrician to install additional outlets. - Use GFCI Outlets Near Water Sources
GCFI stands for “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter”, and is specialized outlet designed to cut off the flow of electricity moisture is detected. These outlets are easily recognizable by the two red buttons between the plug stations, marked “test” and “reset”. Any room which is likely to have excessive moisture, such as your kitchen and bathrooms, should be outfitted with a GCFI outlet. If you have an older home, check your outlets in these areas and call a professional electrician if you need these outlets replaced. - Maintain Space Around Electrical Outlets and Cords
Very often in living spaces, items such as curtains, boxes or furniture are placed up against electrical outlets. These items are flammable and could ignite electrical fires if an outlet is overloaded or malfunctioning. Outlets generate a small amount of heat as a matter of course, but if they are faulty, the level of heat generated can cause sparks. Keeping flammable items away from outlets can help to prevent these sparks catching fire. You may want to randomly check your outlets periodically to make sure they are not unusually warm. - Unplug Appliances and Devices When Not Using
Studies indicate that the average family has over 50 small appliances, computers or devices plugged into outlets at any given time. While it doesn’t make sense to unplug many of these devices (think refrigerators and freezers) there are many other small appliances that should be unplugged whenever not in use. These may include laptops, toasters, blow dryers and blenders. Although space heaters are not often used in the Sarasota area, if you use one during the winter months, be sure to unplug it when you leave the room. Space heaters are responsible for thousands of house fires per year. Keep in mind: all appliances and devices draw electricity even when in the off position. You can save money on your electric bill if you get in the habit of unplugging small appliances after every use, and larger items -such as the TV and lighting fixtures – if you are leaving for the day. - Replace Old Appliances
Appliances are not cheap, and most people think that as long as it still works, it is worth keeping. Unfortunately, aging appliances are notorious for starting house fires, especially if they have frayed cords, cause lights to flicker, spark when turned on or radiate heat. Not only will you be safer with new appliances, but they are likely much more energy efficient. - Schedule a Safety Inspection
To get a baseline on the electrical systems in your home, we recommend that you schedule a safety inspection. A professional electrician can make sure that your wiring and outlets are in good shape, and ensure that your electrical panel is up to code and sufficient for the power load in your home.If you have any questions or would like to call a licensed electrician to your home, call Promise Electric today. We serve all of greater Sarasota and Bradenton with expert residential and commercial electrical service.
