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.

Child Safety

  • Cover seldom-used outlets with well-fitting plastic safety plugs.
  • For outlets used frequently, get safety covers that let appliance cords pass in and out.
  • Never leave light bulb sockets empty. Replace burned out lights immediately.
  • Keep floors clear of small metal objects children may use to poke in outlets.
  • Put fans and portable heaters out of children's reach.

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