Tips for Home Electrical Safety

From Your Boston Electrical Contractors at J.J. Galvin Electrical

According to the National Fire Protection Association, on average, U.S. fire departments respond to approximately 47,820 reported home fires involving electrical failure or malfunction (2007-2011). Tragically, these fires resulted in 455 deaths and 1,518 injuries, and $1.5 billion in property damage.

At J.J. Galvin Electrical, we promote electrical safety and as a part of our commitment to eliminate electrical and fire-related deaths and injuries, we have provided some tips for home electrical safety.

Extension Cords

• Since frayed or cracked cords can cause shock or fire, replaced old or damaged extension cords.
• Never run an extension cord under a rug.
• Never overload an extension cord – it could cause a fire.
• Only use extension cord in temporary situations.

Receptacles

• Replace any receptacles that are broken, feel hot to the touch, spark or make a noise when inserting a plug, or can no longer hold a plug securely.
• Never alter polarized plugs to make them fit into an unpolarized receptacle.
• Do not use multi-plug adapters for extended periods of time. Instead, add a new receptacle and circuit if necessary.

Kitchen Appliances

• Unplug kitchen appliances when not in use. Unattended, plugged-in appliances can create an unnecessary risk of fire.
• Make sure that all appliances are away from the sink area. Mixing electricity and water can result in an electric shock or fire hazard.
• Remove all combustibles from the cooking range.

Electric Blankets

• Cracks, breaks in wiring, plugs or connectors are a sign that you need to discard the blanket.
• Do not allow anything on top of an electric blanket (including pets) when in use.
• Never fold an electric blanket when in use.
• Never tuck in an electric blanket. Pinching the wires can cause damage, which can create a fire hazard.

Circuit Breakers

• Turn off the freezer, refrigerator, and air conditioner. Flip each circuit breaker on and off three times; do this at least once a year.
• Test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) monthly. Test by pushing the test button, and reset by moving the breaker handle to the off position and then to the on position. Defective GFCI circuit breakers should only be replaced by a qualified electrician.
• Test Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) monthly. You do this by following the directions for the GFCI test above. If you have a defective AFCI circuit breaker, it should be replaced by a qualified electrician.

For more home safety tips, contact us today!

At J.J. Galvin Electrical, we are a family-owned and operated business that has been serving residential and commercial properties throughout Boston for over 30 years. If you are interested in having us inspect your property for any electrical hazards, please contact us to schedule a FREE estimate with a knowledgeable and friendly electrician from our team!