Electricity powers nearly every aspect of modern life, but if used improperly, it can pose serious risks. Electrical Safety Month in May serves as a reminder of the importance of preventing electrical hazards at home.
Broad River Electric understands the risks associated with improper electricity use. By following key safety practices, you can reduce the risk of electrical hazards and ensure your family stays protected.
Here are five tips for staying safe at home.
1. Be vigilant. Regularly inspect your electrical system for any signs of dam- age or outdated components and replace any frayed electrical wires or cords. The Electrical Safety Foundation International estimates that 3,300 home fires originate from extension cords annually, either from overloading, overheating or fraying. Instead of relying on extension cords as permanent power solutions, contact a qualified electrician to install additional outlets.
2. Use surge protectors. Safeguard your sensitive electronics and appliances with surge protectors. These devices help divert excess voltage away from your electronics, reducing the risk of damage or electrical fires. Not all power strips include surge protection, so read the label carefully.
3. Practice safe power strip use. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with power strips that exceed the outlet’s capacity. High-energy devices, such as heaters, microwaves and hairdryers should be distributed across multiple outlets. Overloading an outlet with a “busy” power strip can lead to overheating and create a fire hazard.
4. Water and electricity don’t mix. Always keep electrical appliances and devices away from water sources, including sinks, bathtubs or swimming pools. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) should be installed in areas where water and electricity are typically in close proximity, including kitchens, bathrooms and outdoor outlets.
5. Educate family members. Teach children not to play with electrical outlets or appliances, and ensure they understand the potential dangers of electricity. Create and rehearse a home fire escape plan that includes electrical safety precautions in case of emergencies.
Safety is a priority for our employees at Broad River Electric, too. For our linemen in particular, on-the-job safety can mean the difference between life and death. Our team recently celebrated a big milestone—500,000 hours without a lost-time accident! This accomplishment would not have been possible without the vigilance and dedication of every person in our organization.
Our goal at Broad River is to always provide you with affordable and reliable electrical service, delivered safely to your home. We hope you will join us in practicing electrical safety, which is essential for protecting your family, property and peace of mind. Consistently taking these steps can help ensure a safer, more secure home for you and your loved ones.
President & CEO