
While
electricity makes living easier and more enjoyable, right now, you could
be living with dangerous electrical hazards.
Learn
these safety tips and stay safe in your home:
-
Have
a qualified electrical contractor inspect your home to be sure it
is properly grounded.
-
Large
appliances should have their own circuit and be grounded with a three-pronged
plug.
-
Never
stand in water or on a damp floor when using electrical appliances
_ and don't put any electrical parts in water.
-
Don't
touch or lean on plumbing at the same time.
-
Don't
locate your swimming pool under power lines.
-
Keep
appliances in good condition.
-
Always
unplug them - by pulling the plug, not the cord - when not in use.
-
Replace
the appliance when a cord is worn or frayed. Remember, extension cords
should be used temporarily.
-
Don't
do amateur repairs on your appliances. Call a qualified technician.
Never insert metal objects like knives or forks into your toaster.
-
If
power shuts off in your home, try to find the cause. It may be that
you have a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker. When resetting circuit
breakers, don't stand on a damp floor.
-
Never
replace fuses with a copper penny or wrap one in aluminum foil.
-
Call
a qualified electrician for inspection if power does not resume.
-
Be
sure to keep space heaters clear of anything flammable, such as curtains
or bed linens.
-
Purchase
heaters that have automatic shut-off devices when knocked over.
-
Always
unplug them when not in use.
-
When
using power tools, be sure your equipment is adequate for the job.
There must be enough circuits of the correct size and all must be
well grounded.
-
Use
the safety release to prevent accidental starting.
-
Keep
tools clean, and use and store them in a dry place. Dampness increases
shock hazard.
-
Protect
cords from heat, chemicals, gases, or oil and coil them loosely when
finished.