Safeguard your family from electrical hazards

The use of electricity in our home is essential but it also carries significant risks if not handled correctly.

We use electricity as part of our daily lives to power everything in our homes but tend to forget that it comes with significant risks if not handled correctly. 

Electrical hazards are situations in which the use of electricity could result in harm, such as electrical shocks, burns, or fires. These hazards are frequently caused by faulty or damaged electrical equipment, improper use of electrical devices, or inadequate electrical safety practices and it is important to understand the most common electrical hazards that can occur in the home:

• Faulty or Damaged Wiring

Electrical fires can occur when wiring is old, worn out, or damaged. Regular inspections and timely replacements are required.

• Overloaded Circuits

Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet can overload the circuit, posing a fire risk.

• Improper Grounding

Proper grounding helps to avoid electrical shock. Ensure that all of your electrical systems are properly grounded.

Identify potential risks with this inspection checklist:

• Check for any wires that are damaged, frayed, or worn out.
• Check outlets and switches for signs of overheating, such as discolouration or a burning odour.
• Make sure that all outlets in wet areas, such as bathrooms and kitchens, are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters.
• Check for any loose or exposed wires.
• Ensure that all appliances are properly grounded.

When you should call a qualified Electrician:

• Circuit breaker trips occur frequently.
• Lights that flicker or dim.
• Outlets or switches that are hot to touch.
• There is a burning smell or sparks.
• Any ongoing electrical problem that lacks a clear and safe resolution.

Practical Safety Tips

• Regular Inspection and Maintenance
• Inspect your home on a regular basis for signs of faulty wiring, such as flickering lights, buzzing sounds, or burning smells. Hire a licensed electrician to perform a thorough inspection once a year.
• Use Circuit Breakers and Safety Switches
• Circuit breakers and safety switches are designed to keep you and your family from electric shocks and fires. When a fault is detected, they automatically shut off the electrical supply.
• Avoid Overloading Outlets
• Do not plug too many appliances into the same outlet. If necessary, use a power strip that includes a circuit breaker.
• Properly Ground All Electrical Systems
• Make sure that all electrical systems and appliances in your home are properly grounded. This can help avoid electric shocks.
• Keep Electrical Appliances Away from Water
• Water conducts electricity. Keep electrical appliances away from sinks, tubs, pools, and other water sources.
• Educate Your Family
• Teach your family, particularly children, about the dangers of electricity. Make certain that they understand not to put fingers or objects into outlets, not to operate electrical appliances with wet hands, and not to pull cords from the wall.

Electrical safety is a serious issue that requires constant attention. Understanding the potential hazards and following these practical tips will help protect your family from electrical dangers. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with a qualified electrician. Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety of your loved ones.

The Fire Protection Association provides essential home fire safety tips: 

General Safety Tips

• Keep matches out of the reach of children
• Do not overload electrical sockets or run electrical cords under carpets
• Install smoke detectors in your home
• Take care with portable heat generating appliances such as irons, kettles and heaters
• Develop and practice an escape plan - plan two ways out of every bedroom
• Never use flammable liquids for starting braai fires or to remove stains from clothing

Know what to do if a fire occurred

• Display your local Fire Department telephone number near the phone then learn it
• Crawl low in smoke
• Never open a door that is hot to the touch
• Wake everybody in the house
• If your clothing catches fire - STOP, DROP, ROLL
• Have a safe place to meet out of the house
• Never re-enter the house for pets or personal belongings
• Tackle the fire if it is safe to do so

Extract from Property 24