Electric Safety in the Home

Every year, electricity-related incidents claim lives, cause shock and burn injuries, and result in billions of dollars in property damage caused by electrical fires. To protect yourself from electricity-related injury, check for problems in your home electrical system.

• Check outlets and extension cords to make sure they aren’t    overloaded.
• Examine electrical cords to make sure they aren’t frayed, damaged or placed under rugs or carpets.
• Make sure that the proper wattage light bulbs are being used in light fixtures and lamps.
• Consider installing ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) anywhere electricity and water can mix.
• Unplug appliances before cleaning.
• Use only Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approved electrical equipment.