Home Electrical Safety

  • Never use a radio, hairdryer, or any other electric device near water, especially in bathrooms or kitchens.
  • Ensure that bathroom outlets have Ground Fault Interrupter, commonly called a GFI, a device that automatically trips the electricity off if a fault is detected. They are an inexpensive and smart investment. National Electric Code requires them in new homes.
  • Purchase hairdryers with fault protection built into their cords.
  • Breaker or fuse boxes control electric circuits in your home and are protective devices. If a circuit “trips” and the reason is not apparent, have an electrician find out what is going on. Never try to “cheat” a fuse box with a penny — you’re only inviting the possibility of fire.
  • Cut, punctured or scuffed electric cords are dangerous! Replace them immediately.
  • Never run a cord under a rug or through a wet area.
  • Three-pronged plugs are essential, the third prong is there to ground the wire and prevent shocks, so never tamper with it.
  • If an appliance sputters, sparks or buzzes, turn it off and get it fixed. Make sure any electric appliance you purchase has the Underwriters Laboratory tag or label (UL Approved).
  • Never overload a circuit or daisy-chain power strips. This invites danger by overloading the circuit.
  • Make sure any portable space heaters have a protective shut-off if tipped.
  • Never use space heaters near curtains or flammable material.
  • It still happens: People stick forks in toasters while the toaster is working. Always unplug or turn off any appliance before working with it.