Today, we are totally depended on electricity to complete our routine work, be it in our homes or offices. However, when working with electricity, we are also vulnerable to likely electrical safety hazards. Luckily, these dangers can be eradicated or lowered by being alert and taking steps to get rid of their hazards, preferably with the aid of an expert local electrician from Adelaide or nearby location.
Eight most serious electrical dangers that could arise in any home are mentioned below:
1. Curious Young Children
Children, especially toddlers and kids below 7 years old tend to be enormously curious and eager to discover their world. Although it’s always better to monitor children of this age at all times, parents can take additional measures to shield their little ones.
Any electrical outlet within their reach and at their height can be altered with extra-safe power points. These can be replaced with normal power point, thus, prevent little fingers and sharp objects from going into the socket. Vulnerable sockets can lead to grave injury.
2. Light Bulbs
We never consider light bulbs as being electrical hazards; however, the likelihood of an electrical fire originates when light bulbs are kept nearby flammable materials. These can include drapes, beds, plastics or other items like upholstery.
Similar to all other sources of electricity, lights can also cause electric shock, so make sure you always turn off the light switch before changing a light bulb and refrain from replacing a light bulb or even touch a light switch with wet hands. To avoid overheating, always make sure you use a light bulb having the right wattage. Read these simple steps to extinguish a fire at the initial stages.
3. Electric Outlets Close to Water
- Since water conducts electricity, it is advisable to keep electric outlets away from water so that it would lower the likelihood of electric shocks.
- Electric outlets in kitchens, bathrooms and other living areas with water should be set up a reasonable space away from the water source.
- Refrain from using a phone, radio, hair dryer or another gadget in the bath area or near the pool or anywhere having a wet floor.
4. Wet Hands
- Never use electrical appliances with wet hands because it increases the probability of receiving an electric shock.
- It is recommended to keep your appliances away from bathtubs, showers, sinks and taps.
5. Pouring Out Water on Electrical Fires
The commonest mistake is of pouring out water on electrical fires. Refrain from pouring out water on the flames caused due to an electrical fire, as water will further fuel the fire and could cause electrocution.
Suppose, you’re worried about electrical fires, keep a fire extinguisher on the site so that in an emergency, you could use it in place of water. In case, you don’t have one close by, switch off your electrical power, vacant your home and call in the fire brigade personnel.
6. Covered Electrical Wires & Cords
Place wires and cords away from other items and keep them uncovered. An electrical fire could be triggered as the outcome of the heavy covering of wires causing cords to overheat.
7. Extension Cords
To lower the probability of tripping or accident, extension cords ought to be cautiously fixed in place wherever possible. On unused sockets, make use of plastic socket closures. Never ever use extension cords as a lasting alternative for extra power sockets, and refrain from using them for several appliances, all at the same time.
8. Faulty Electric Wires & Inappropriate Wiring
Inappropriate wiring can elevate chance of fire, arc faults, power surges and other grave outcomes. Broken, damaged or mouldy electrical wires can increase the likelihood of electrical accidents. So, when it comes to electrical works, never do-it-yourself instead get the assistance of a professional electrician to carry out electrical wiring in your house. Always use good quality wiring that adheres to safety standards, which is essential for safety. Additionally, get a certified local electrician to inspect your wiring on a regular basis to make sure the wiring is safe. Upgrade and change old and faulty wires if need be. Some dangers include the following:
- Broken wire insulation caused by corrosion, bending, heat or age.
- Electrical appliances that are damaged.
- Inappropriate or loose connections like switches or electrical outlets.
- Overheated cords or wires.
- Worn-out extension cords or appliances.
- Rodents may have chewed electrical wire/cable.
- Exhausted or perforated wire padding that could happen from, for example, a chair’s leg sitting on an extension cord.
Don’t ever try to repair any of the electrical appliances or electrical wiring yourself, always call a licensed electrician from Melbourne or nearby location.
- Get a safety switch installed, also known as a Residual Current Device (RCD), which is one of the best ways to lower death hazard from an electric shock in your home.
- Ensure that appliances like televisions, refrigerators and computers have adequate space around them for proper ventilation, so as to shield them from overheating.
- Ensure all appliances are turned off before cleaning areas like the bathroom, laundry or kitchen.
- Before touching switches or electrical appliances, ensure your hands are dry.
- Inspect your appliances regularly for defective plugs, switches and worn cords.
- Always use outdoor grade extension cords for electrical use outside of the home.
- Refrain from overloading power boards with too many appliances at once. For instance: If you have a heater plugged into the power board, you’ll have to unplug it before using your hairdryer.
Be careful while doing any kind of electrical work. Hope the above terms help you to keep yourself and your loved once safe from electrical hazards. In any kind of electrical emergency, call professional electrician.
