Keeping your home safe against winter electrical hazards
January 22, 2024
Winter Electrical Safety Tips
Winter is when most of us stay indoors and out of the cold, chilly weather with blankets, space heaters, and a warm drink. While you are snuggled up , you should think about your electrical safety.
With the cold weather we have been experiencing, many people depend on electrical devices to keep their homes warm. We use more electricity in these months and can stress the electrical system. Here are a few tips to prevent an electrical emergency, and to keep your family safe.
Space heaters
Using space heaters is a great way to keep extra warm during the winter. They can also be the biggest hazards in our homes.
• We need to keep 3 feet of space around heaters in every direction.
• Don’t plug a space heater into an extension cord. It can cause the cables to overheat.
• Do not leave the heater unattended. Disconnect the heater when not in use.
• Keep it free from blankets, curtains, rugs, and any other debris that could cause things to overheat or catch fire.
• Replace Damaged Electrical Cords
• When you bring space heaters, heated blankets, or anything you store most of the year out for use, they should be inspected before using.
• If you find any frayed, worn, or broken electrical cables, it is recommended to have them replaced or fixed to prevent a fire or shock risk.
Click here
to read more about space heater safety.
Keep Cords Safe
Try to avoid running electrical cords or power strips under rugs or behind furniture. This can cause the wires to wear and can become frayed. Covering cords can block the heat from escaping. If a cord feels hot to the touch or is damaged in any way, do not use it. Hot cords can be a fire hazard.
What happens if there is an electrical fire? Click here to read how to put out an electrical fire.
Do not use extension cords as permanent wiring. If you find yourself using the extension cord for something permanent, call us to quote getting you set up with a new electrical outlet.
Follow Light Safety
While the holidays are over, it is now popular to have a holiday tree up all year long. Make sure you follow the safety tips for string lights:
• Aim for no more than three strings of light per circuit.• Always unplug or turn off string lights when you are not home or go to bed for the night.• Replace broken or missing bulbs to prevent electrocution or fires.
Call Us
Following these guidelines can help keep your home safe from electrical issues. If you find there are any issues with the electrical system in your home, make sure you call a licensed electrician. The team at KrisLee Electric is ready to meet all your home’s needs. Contact KrisLee Electric
to schedule an appointment today!
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