According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical malfunctions or failures were the second-leading cause of home fires between 2012 and 2016 in the United States. On top of that, the leading areas of origin for electrical fires are the kitchen (11%), the attic (12%), and the bedroom (14%). If you’re a homeowner, you do not want to become part of these statistics.
With the help of the following electrician approved tips, your home can remain safe and fire-free.
Only Allow an Electrician to Make Repairs
When it comes to electrical components in your home, you shouldn’t trust anyone but a reputable electrician to make repairs. Home electricians have the training and experience to complete proper installations and fixes. It’s not safe for a family member to try to fix electrical wiring or anything of that nature because you don’t want an electrical fire on your hands.
Don't Overload Power Cords and Extension Cords
Overloaded power cords and extension cords can cause electrical fires as well. This is why you should only use these types of cords for temporary purposes. An additional safety measure you can take is purchasing power cords that have internal overload protection. You should also always replace damaged or worn extension cords. It’s not safe to try to repair them yourself or to use them when wear and tear are present.
Plug Appliances Directly Into the Wall
Another electrical fire safety tip an electrician would share with you is that major appliances should be plugged directly into the wall. These appliances include washers, dryers, stoves, refrigerators, and freezers. Since they use so much power, it’s not safe to plug them into extension cords.
Keep an Eye Out for Warning Signs
There are a few warning signs that indicate your wiring or electrical systems are faulty. If you notice any of the following signs, contact a local home electrician right away.
- Dimming or flickering lights
- Repeatedly tripping circuit breakers
- Several blown fuses
- Discolored switch plates, outlets, and/or cords
- Odd odor(s) coming from switches or outlets
- Switches and/or outlets are warm to the touch
Ensure Electrical Codes Are Met
A final tip on electrical fire safety is to ensure your home’s electrical units are up to code. Home electric panel inspections are an electrician’s specialty, so hire a licensed local electrical contractor to come to your home at least once a year. They’ll determine whether your home could benefit from electrical updates so the chances of a fire significantly decrease.
You deserve to feel safe in your home, so follow the above tips to prevent an electrical fire from occurring on your property. With the help of an electrician, you can ensure your home is up to code and repaired to perfection. For more information on electrical fire safety, contact a reputable electrician at Reyco Electrical Services today.
