Learn the Five Home Electrical Hazards That May Be Putting You in Danger Right Now

Everyone wants to be safe in their own home, yet many people do not realize that there are electrical issues that are making them unsafe as they read this. Keep reading to find out about five of the most common electrical hazards and then contact Sonner Electric at 661-728-0126 if you need help from a residential electrical company.

1. Overusing Extension Cords and Power Strips

Adding an extension cord of power strip just so you can add more devices than an outlet allows is not safe. In fact, it is quite dangerous. Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis for short periods of time. They should not be run through ceilings or walls. Remember that they can overheat and catch fire. If you have the cords stretched out, you have created both fire and tripping hazards.

2. Water

There are numerous areas within a home that have water and electricity coming into very close contact with each other. This can be a serious issue and is the reason it is so important to have a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter outlet installed. These are three-pronged outlets with a resent button. If the outlet and the electricity get close to each other, the electricity automatically gets shut off.

However, this does not mean you do not have to be careful around these outlets. If you are using an electrical appliance, including a hairdryer, curling iron, electric razor, etc., then you should not be wet or touching water. Keep all your electronics away from wet areas too.

3. Kids and Pets Are Dangerous

If you have young children and/or pets then you have fire hazards. Both spend their days closer to the ground than you do, and they may find the outlets very interesting. Use child-safe covers or tamper-resistant outlets installed to prevent accidental fires.

4. Damaged Wires/Cords Are a Serious Risk

If any appliance or electric device in your home has a corroded, frayed, cracked, or disfigured cord or cable, it should not be used. Any exposed inner wire can burn or shock you and could cause a fire. Prevent damage to cords by unplugging them by grasping the plug end – not pulling on the cord.

5. Dead Batteries in Your Smoke Alarm

You may or may not be surprised to learn that more than 66% of people who die in house fires did not have a smoke alarm that was correctly working. This is why you should test your smoke alarm at least once per month. You can also change the batteries every six months to ensure that they work when you need them to.

If you are in need of electrical work then you are in need of Sonner Electric. You can call us now at 661-728-0126 for help.