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29 Apr, 2024
Posted by Reactive IT
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Electrical Hazards in Your Home and How to Avoid Them


Electricity is part of our daily life from lighting and appliances to the heating system and even our gadgets. Despite all these benefits, it risks danger that could result in electrical hazards. Electrical hazards can cause shocks, fire, or even death. Regular checks should be done on the electrical systems in your home.

Below, we’ll look at some common electrical hazards found in homes and how you can avoid them to ensure that you and your family live in a safe environment.

1. Overloaded Outlets and Power Strips

The fact is, one of the most common causes of electrical fires is overloading outlets or power strips. If many high-wattage, heavy-duty appliances are plugged into one outlet, or if power strips have too many devices connected to them, then the circuitry can heat up to dangerous levels.

How to Avoid It:

  • Avoid using several high-wattage appliances, such as hairdryers, heaters, or toasters, on one socket or circuit.
  • Use those power strips that have circuit breakers built inside.
  • If you find yourself needing power strips a lot, then probably add more outlets and distribute the load.
  • Always check your outlets and the power strips often for signs of heat or even if you don’t see any discoloration. If there is any sign, then replace with a new one, and call a licensed electrician.

2. Damaged or Frayed Cords

Another one of the common hazards that people have in homes is damaged or frayed cords. When worn out or with exposed wires, this can lead to electric shocks or fires if not attended on time.

How to Avoid It:

  • Check often. Change the cords if you see fraying, cracks, or wires exposed.
  • Do not run cords under rugs or furniture, which may cause them to become too hot or damaged.
  • When disconnecting appliances, pull out the plug; don’t yank the cord, or the wire connections could be stressed.
  • You can use cord organizers that are going to keep your cords in place to avoid them tangling, hence causing damage.

3. Faulty Wiring

Poor wiring is another major source of concern in terms of home safety, especially for people living in old homes. It may produce electric shocks, short circuits, or even fire if not taken care of.

How to Avoid It:

  • If you live in an old house, it’s suggested you have a licensed electrician check its wiring to make sure it complies with current safety standards.
  • Keep an eye out for poor wiring signals, such as circuit breakers frequently tripping, lights flickering, or light fixtures buzzing, and call an electrician at their earliest appearance.
  • Don’t try to attempt any electrical repairs yourself unless you are trained, skilled, and authorized. Always bring in professionals for your electrical work.

4. Not Using the Extension Cords Correctly

Extension cords are really convenient, but if used thoughtlessly or overloaded, could pose hazards. In cases of this, extension cords should never be used as permanent wiring.

How to Avoid It:

  • Use extension cords only if necessary. They are meant only for temporary purposes. If you need a constant extension of power in your home, it is important to install additional outlets.
  • Make sure the total rated wattage of devices connected to the extension cord is equal to or less than the wattage rating of the extension cord.
  • Do not daisy-chain extension cords; they may overload and overheat. Keep extension cords away from heat sources and make sure not to get pinched or crushed by furniture or doors.

5. Old Electrical Panels

Electrical panels in older homes may not be rated for today’s electrical loads, increasing the chances of circuit overloading and fires.

How to Avoid It:

  • If by chance there is an old electrical panel in your home, be sure to update it to a new one with sufficient capacity that will address your electrical requirements.
  • Make sure that your electrical panel contains serviceable circuit breakers or fuses. If they trip too often, then it is likely time for a professional inspection.
  • Keep the area around the electrical panel clear and easily accessible. Do not store any flammable materials near the electrical panel.