Summer is here. It is important for you to remember there are certain electrical dangers you should be on guard against during the season. Before you spend another moment planning your next backyard party, take some time to consider the following electrical safety suggestions.
Swimming Pools
If you or your loved ones plan to spend time in swimming pools this summer, make sure you know all know how to stay safe. Don’t assume that all swimming areas are safe and free of hazards. You should inspect them yourself before tossing caution to the wind and diving in. Make sure any pools you plan to frolic in have been recently inspected and certified as safe. You may need to check the property owner’s safety inspection history for this info.
Do not take any electronics, including cellphones and mobile devices near the water. If you must have something near the water, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends for you to only use battery-operated devices. Pay attention to the weather. If the forecast mentions rain and stormy weather, you should plan your pool excursions for another day. With rainy and stormy weather comes the risk of electrical shock from lightning.
Garden Tools
Make sure you keep all garden tools put up. Garden tools, especially electrical ones should not be left out and lying around for accidents to happen. Make sure you store them properly so that you have no electrical safety concerns to worry about from them. Corded garden equipment should not be used in damp and wet conditions. Even if you like to mow your lawn while it is damp, the risk of electrocution makes it unsafe. You should always wait until your lawn is dry to do any yard work with electrical tools. Don’t forget to inspect your tools periodically to ensure they are safe for use.
Extension Cords
Chances are your home has outside electrical outlets for you to use. Make sure your outlets have weatherproof coverings. You should only use cords that are rated for the outdoors. These cords are sturdier and designed to reduce the risk of electrocution. Keep in mind that extension cords are the cause of thousands of electrical fires each year. So play it safe and err on the side of prevention.
The Importance of Good Electrical Safety Habits
Although you may not normally encounter too many electrical dangers in your everyday life, there’s no reason you and your family should not be in the habit of practicing electrical safety. Make sure you and your family know to stay away from electrical wires they may see on the streets, even if they appear to be dead. They should avoid using electronics around water. They should also inspect items before using them to ensure their cords are free of defects and they are safe for use.
Electrical checkups are necessary to ensure your home remains safe. Have your home inspected by an electrician every six months to a year to ensure that your appliances and electronics are in good working condition. They can also inspect your home’s wiring to ensure that it is properly wired for your family’s needs.
Also, if you plan to make renovations or improvements to your home, make sure you hire an electrician to tackle the electrical aspects. They can keep you from encountering difficulties that affect your home’s function and safety in the years to come.
For more information on electrical safety and ways you can improve your home’s function, feel free to contact us at Gervais Electric. We are available to assist you and work thru any electrical challenges and projects you may have.
