Electrical Safety Advice For Your Home And Office

1. Ensure you examine your electrical cords for cracks or exposed wires before plugging them in so as to prevent instances of electrical shocks and short circuit.
2. Avoid placing electrical cords in areas with high traffic such as door entrance or corridors as this could result in their damage when people triple over them or step on them.
3. Use of nails and staples to attach or hold cords is not recommended as they are likely to damage the cords leading to exposed wires which could result in electrical shock and short circuits. In addition, do not fold or bundle the cords tightly as this may lead to wires inside the cord breaking.
4. Cords should not run under rugs or carpets as this may result in overheating. Carpet and rugs are heavy and will prevent the cord form cooling resulting in heat accumulation over time thus overheating.
5. Electrical extensions cords are not meant to be used as permanent solutions for getting power from one point to another, they are usually temporary solutions. Call your electrician to provide you with permanent solutions of getting power closer to where you want it to be. Moreover, it is advisable to only use outdoor approved electrical cords for outside connections as they have been properly insulated and capable of withstanding the harsh outdoor environment.
6. In the event your cord is damaged or faulty, do not attempt to repair it or fix it with tape. Call your electrician to replace it. To ensure your cord remains strong, always pull it from the power outlet by holding its head and not the cord itself.
7. Having a properly functioning GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) and AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) is integral in providing a safe electrical system. GFCI are designed to immediately shut down electric power output in t her event of electrical leakage so as to prevent shock.
8. GFCI is essential when using devices that could come in contact with water especially in the kitchen, bathroom, poolside, garages and open outdoors. It is advisable to regularly test your GFCI to ensure it is fully functional.

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If you would like to get professional advice on how you can improve the electrical safety of your home or office, why not call your local licensed electrical contractor to schedule an inspection?