Electrical safety in the home: Proper use of extensionWe all try and power our home with energy with steps to reduce consumptions. But do you really know anything about electrical safety?
Most of our homes are susceptible to dangerous electrical hazards with we having little or absolutely no knowledge about. Perhaps, most times we overlook a minor light flick or a circuit or socket that has not been working properly since its installation.
But not all of these electrical risks can be avoided. Moreover, basic safety measure are essential to be taken at a homemakers end to ensure the protection of your life and property.
Even in today's era of wireless technology and appliances, there are a few traditional portable lamps and equipment that enhance your home. And for these to work at their best efficiency, It is important to have additional plugs and extension cords.
The placement of these extension cords has to be done in a systematic way. You cannot have them covered under a carpet or runway where there is risk to trip or a step on it could cause damage to the wires. This action could overall result to cause a fire.
If you notice any damage or broken wiring, you cannot fix it with a tape with a thought to reduce cost. The only way out is a complete replacement of the extension cord.
It’s best to have an expert electrician suggest you of the possible precautions and measures to fix the wiring with utmost care for long term use.
We all know that certain outdoor electrical tools should not be used indoors. But did you know that extension cords are one of them?
We have therefore created a list of safety measures and precautions you need to follow with the use of extension cords.
Safety Tips To Use Extension Cords
Never use additional plugins or cords as a permanent option over your original wiring.
If a cord is used under covered conditions such as fall ceiling, a blanket or a carpet or under surface where ventilation culd be an issue, it may be dangerous to the extent of catching fire or short circuit.
Maintain different cords for the different appliances you plan on using. Never use a single extension for multiple devices or equipments
Avoid attaching an extension cord to walls or on nails. This could result in a damaged wire even without use.
Adjoining to extension cords can prove to be detrimental as this could hamper the voltage. The entire property could be under a serious threat with no alarm or signs of danger.
The most vital step of all, always unplug an extension cord when not in use.
If you are to use a cord in an area that has water or excessive heat, make sure the cord is viable to be operated under eithe rof the extreme conditions
Avoid using cords that are coiled as this may result in overheating or cause damage.
If just by switching the plug you feel it’s hot or likely to catch a short circuit, immediately avoid the use.
Additional Tip For Parents
Parents should make sure that children are unable to reach out any power outlets and have them all covered to prevent electric shock. You should ask your local electrician and get a tamper resistant electrical outlet installed.
The covers prevent any object from entering by applying equal resistance.
Toddlers are habitual to chew whatever object comes in contact. It is however advisable to keep extension cords complete out of reach of children.
Hire a licensed electrician for all your minor and major repairs. It’s an investment you make for safety and well-being. Remember that you are paying for expertise and minimizing risk for all.
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