In every home or work place there is a number of electrical safety hazards, with our increased dependence on electricity there has been a rise in electrical fatalities throughout the years. The most common victims are children who are not carefully supervised. Next common victims would be electricians who work with electricity every day, so they are prone to more injury and some can be fatal.
Listed are some of the most common hazards, recognizing these can help keep your family or employees safe.
Electricity and wet hands are never a good combination. Never handle an electrical appliance or touch an electric socket with wet hands. Sweaty hands are even worse since salt water is an even better conductor of electricity.
Electrical sockets should always be kept at a safe distance from the sink or shower. make sure all outlets near a water source is a GFCI type this will help reduce the risk of electrical shock.
Any electrical socket at knee height should be covered if there are small children in the home, a child that pokes a finger in a socket could be fatally injured from an electrical shock.
Electrical wiring should always be inspected as corroded or torn wires can lead to an electrical accident.
Never attempt to do any electrical work while the power is on, always make sure you have fully turned off the power before beginning any project.
If an electrical fire occurs never use water to try and extinguish it, this will actually make it worse, always use a fire extinguisher.
If you are not a qualified electrician never try to do these projects on your own, incorrect wiring can lead to many accidents.
Light bulbs are a source of heat, always keep any flammable materials away from them as it may cause a fire.
Extension cords are a common reason for shocks and fires, if you have over loaded them they may produce to much heat and cause a fire, also inspect them for worn out wires to ensure safety. Also keep in mind you would never want to cover cords with furniture or rugs, since they do conduct heat.
Keeping this tips in mind should hopefully keep you are your family safe around the home.
