It is common knowledge that people need to implement safe practices when dealing with electricity, but what exactly are those safe practices? Learn the basic electrical safety tips that can be applied both in and out of the home and discover new ways to make your home a safer environment.
INDOORS
Our homes are powered and fully reliant on electricity as it provides us with light, warmth, cooling, food, washing and entertainment. Therefore, it is safe to say that instilling safe electrical practices are essential considering that we are constantly surrounded by sources of electricity, especially if you have young children around.
Cords
Did you know that extension cords should only be used as a temporary resource, not long term? Most people are unaware of this fact and are known to use these cords for a prolonged period of time. Why are they a hazard long term? Well quite simply they can overheat and cause a fire. In order to prevent an electrical fire the following guidelines need to be met:
- The extension cord must be visible and not subject to damage (such as staples or hung in a way that winds the cord)
- Cord must be less than 12 metres in length
- Fully unwind the cord before use to prevent overheating and damage
Appliances
Most, if not all, appliances within the home require electricity. Abide by these following tips to avoid the risks of electrocution.
- Switch the wall plug off before inserting the appliance’s cord and commencing use. The same goes for when you are finished using the appliance, switch the wall plug off again before removing the cord.
- Never use or store electrical appliances near sources of liquid
- If the appliance is faulty, throw it out immediately with a faulty tag to ensure that no one picks it up and continues to use it.
- Never poke anything into an appliance when turned on (e.g. a toaster)
Lights
- Always turn the light off at the switch before swapping over light globes. If the light has been turned on prior to changing the bulb, be mindful that it may be hot to touch.
- Make sure that you have selected the right wattage globe to prevent overheating.
- If you are renovating or need to remove the light fitting, ensure that a trusted Auckland Electrician completes the task for you.
Power boards & adapters
- Never piggy back a double adapter as it is a fire hazard
- Constantly monitor the state of your powerboard as they can easily start an electrical fire. Things to look out for here is signs of discolouration or scorching. The best way to minimise the risks is to use a powerboard that has built in safety features, such as an overload switch
- Ensure that the powerboard is situated in a location that has ventilation to prevent it from overheating.
Wet Areas
It is no secret that water and electricity do not mix together. In fact, it is a common culprit behind starting serious electrical issues, as well as one of the major reasons behind electrocution.
- Keep electrical appliances well away from wet areas such as the skin, bath and shower.
- Never use an electrical item with wet hands
- Do not use electrical portable heaters within a bathroom or wet room area
- If you are needing to use an electrical cord within a wet area, ensure that it has been designed to do so and is safe within those conditions.
OUTDOORS
Concealed Wires
If you are commencing landscape work outside then there is one rule which needs to be followed: Dial before you dig. This is because often there are power lines or electrical lines underneath the ground. If you dig into them, not only can they cause annoyance, but can also cause serious risks to your safety.
The same goes for wires inside walls. Ensure you know where the wires run before you commence any work.
Prevention
The best practice to follow is to employ safe practices when handling electricity to avoid any potential risks, rather than having to deal with the serious and potentially fatal consequences.
Never attempt any electrical work yourself unless you are a qualified electrician. Electricians are a licensed trade and therefore any electrical work should only be undertaken by a professional.
If you are using an appliance (particularly work appliances) which require a test and tag, ensure that the appliance is having routine inspections.
Avoid the risks and contact a Domestic Electrician Auckland for all of your electrical needs. At Northern Lights, we can help you with electrical maintenance and LED light installation. We specialise in residential, commercial and industrial electrical services. Good electricians are hard to come by, that’s why Northern Lights provides services not just in Auckland but also across the North Shore. Whether you’re looking for an electrician Albany, electrician Milford, or electrician Glenfield, let the experts help with your electrical needs. We provide electrical services 24 hours, 7 days a week. Contact us today and one of our friendly team members will help you out!
