Electrical Safety Tips for the Home

We depend on the safe use of electricity in our homes each and every day. Safety hazards can often go unnoticed or unseen. What homeowners might think of as just a "minor" problem can eventually lead to a devastating fire. In fact, electricity is a leading cause of home fires in the U.S. To reduce the risk of an electrical fire in your home, follow these simple tips:

Replace or repair loose, cracked or frayed cords on all electrical devices.

Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpet.

Don’t pinch cords against walls or furniture.

In homes with small children, unused wall sockets and extension-cord receptacles should have plastic safety covers.

Consider having additional circuits or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you do not have to use extension cords.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for plugging an appliance into a receptacle outlet.

Avoid overloading outlets. Plug only one high-wattage appliance into each receptacle outlet at a time.

If outlets or switches feel warm, shut off the circuit and have them checked by an electrician.

Never alter a plug to fit an outdated outlet.

When possible, avoid the use of “cube taps” and other devices that allow the connection of multiple appliances into a single receptacle.

Place lamps on level surfaces, away from things that can burn and use bulbs that match the lamp’s recommended wattage.

Keep heat-producing appliances (i.e., irons, space heaters) at least three feet away from anything that can burn.

Allow adequate ventilation around computers, stereo equipment and all electronic components to prevent overheating.

Unplug all small appliances when they are not in use.

Make sure outdoor electrical fixtures are weatherproof.

Information was taken from www.nfpa.org. For questions or further information, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 303-755-9202.

Cunningham Fire Protection District - 2015 S Dayton Street - Denver, CO 80247 - 303-755-9202 - www.cfpd.org