Most of the time, we don’t pay much attention to the home electrical hazards, and sometimes we are not able to identify them as well. No matter the reason, if you are not rectifying the electrical problems in your house, you are putting your and your family’s life in constant danger. The home electrical hazards are the most common reasons for fire, which can lead to a disaster. The best way to avoid any disaster is to understand common electrical hazards that can arise in a home. Thoroughly check for these electrical hazards, and try to fix every one of them. Dealing with electricity is very risky, and we suggest you to call a professional every time there is a need. You will only be able to identify when you will know what the common home electrical hazards are. So, let’s take a look at them.
1- Incorrect Wattage Light Bulbs
When installing a light bulb in a lamp that exceeds the maximum wattage supported by the lamp, you are putting its wiring at risk of catching fire. So, always try to use light bulbs that are less than or equal to maximum wattage printed on a lamp’s socket. If you need brighter light, buy a new lamp that can support the usage of a bulb with higher wattage.
2- Old or Defective Wiring
Old and defective wiring is one the most common and one of the most dangerous electrical hazards which has all the potential to cause electrical fires. Electrical wiring loses its strength and credibility over time and might not carry the load of appliances that demand higher wattage. You also need to check out for loose electrical sockets and burned out switches; if you find any, get them replaced ASAP. If you live in a house that was built decades back, you must get your wiring checked to avoid any electrical hazard.
3- Improper Use of Extension Cords
Whenever you are using an extension cord, make sure it is fixed in a place to avoid any tripping or accident and never rely on extension cords as your permanent alternative of power sockets. It is also suggested that you do not use multiplugs on extension cords. Overloading an extension cord with too many appliances is itself an electrical hazard.
4- Old or Damaged Appliances
Are you still using the same microwave oven that you bought when you moved into your house years back? You might want to buy a new one because although old or damaged appliances may seem harmless, they can lead to serious electrical hazards. If you have any appliance whose cord is damaged or pierced, get it fixed to avoid any tragedy.
5- Unprotected Electrical Outlets
Children like to explore everything that comes in the way, and unfortunately, electrical outlets are no exception. If your children are playing with unprotected electrical outlets, it can cause a fatal incident. If, in any case, they become successful in putting the finger or an insulated object inside the socket, they can be burned, shocked, or electrocuted. Don’t take any risk, cover your electrical outlets with plastic closures, and try to keep the outlets out of the reach of children.
6- Leaving Appliances Plugged-in Near Water Sources
It is very important to ensure that an electrical outlet is installed at a distance where there is water usage. Places like bathrooms, washing area, laundry, and swimming pools can become dangerous places when exposed to an electrical socket. To avoid any electrical hazard, it is important to install GFCI sockets near the places where water is involved. GFCIs cut off the power as soon as it detects that someone is receiving a shock, which helps in prevent any life-threatening danger. To replace your sockets with GFCIs, call hills district electrician from Mr. Switch.
7- Operating Electric Appliances with Wet Hands
It is obvious that if you are operating any electrical appliance with wet hands, you are at risk of fatal electrocution. So, always reach electrical appliances and socket with dry hands.
8- Trying to do wiring yourself.
If you are not a qualified person, don’t ever think about doing the wiring yourself. Leave all this to an expert. And in case you have moved into a house or a flat with DIY wiring, your life is at risk. Call a professional to make sure everything is done correctly, and there is no significant risk involved.
Wrap Up
All the common electrical hazards mentioned above pose severe threats to safety. But the good thing is that they can easily be solved. Electricity is an integral part of our life, but it should be dealt with extreme care. If you want to address any electrical problem that can put you in danger, call a professional, or a northern beaches electrician to help with all your electrical needs.
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