According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical cords and temporary wiring account for over 25% of the estimated 81,000 electrical system fires that occur each year. These fires can be prevented by following these essential home electrical safety tips:
Extension cord safety
•Do not use extension cords as a substitute for repairing building wiring
•Inspect extension cords for broken connectors, damaged insulation, and missing hardware before each use
•Do not run extension cords through walls, over beams, around corners, or through doorways
•Only use extension cords approved for the environment and loads expected
•Equip extension cords with ground fault interruption (GFI) devices
•Discard damaged extension cords; do not try to repair them
•Use only surge protected power strips. Inspect the power strips regularly for damage or signs of overloading.
Temporary wiring
•Do not substitute temporary and flexible wiring for repairing building wiring
•Use temporary wiring only when needed for maintenance, repair, or demolition activities
•Limit temporary wiring for holiday or ornamental lighting to no more than 90 days
•In outdoor settings, use only outdoor approved temporary wiring and extension cords
•Do not route temporary wiring across floors, around doors or through walls
•Locate temporary wiring at least seven feet above any walking or working surface
•Protect temporary wiring from sharp edges, heat, and sunlight to avoid breakdown of the insulation
Equipment power cords
•Inspect equipment cords for damage before each use
•Do not operate equipment cords without a ground connection unless they are double insulated
•Do not splice equipment cords to repair damage or to extend the original length
Maintenance and inspection
•Lock out or tag all electrical equipment or lines while they are being serviced, maintained, or adjusted
•Inspect all electrical appliances to ensure they are properly grounded. Cords that are frayed or damaged should be removed and replaced immediately, not spliced or taped. Shut down main power source when replacing fuses.
Safeguards to install
•Write the purpose of each circuit breaker, fuse, or switch on the panel board
•Label all disconnecting switches and circuit breakers
•Make sure there is sufficient access and working space around all electrical equipment for safe operation and maintenance
•Cover all unused electrical openings (including conduit knockouts) with electrical enclosures and fittings
The recommendations provided are general in nature; unique circumstances may not warrant or require implementation of some or all of the safety suggestions. Checking with a certified electrician will give you the complete information you need to make your home energy efficient and safe.
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