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Plug into Safety with Practical Pointers from Electrical Safety Foundation International

Department:  ESFI
Type:  News

 

Arlington, VA—May is National Electrical Safety Month, and the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is raising awareness about potential home electrical hazards and the importance of electrical safety. This year’s campaign challenges people across the country to evaluate the electrical safety of their own homes.
 
According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the average home today has three televisions, two DVD players, at least one digital camera, one desktop computer, and two cell phones.
 
Many homes and their electrical systems were built before modern-day home electronics and appliances were even invented. Today’s increased demand for energy can overburden an older home’s electrical system.
 
“Modern homes run on electricity, but if you don’t properly maintain your electrical products they can create hazards,” warns ESFI president Brett Brenner. “The good news is that eliminating electrical hazards from your home doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive.”
 
Learn to recognize and eliminate potential electrical hazards that can exist in common areas of your home with these simple safety tips from ESFI:
  • Make sure entertainment centers and computer equipment have plenty of space around them for ventilation.
  • Use extension cords as a temporary solution, and never as a permanent power supply.
  • Examine extension cords before each use. Replace cracked or damaged cords immediately.
  • Do not place extension cords in high traffic areas, under carpets, or across walkways, where they pose a potential tripping hazard.
  • Use a surge protector to protect your computer and other electronic equipment from damage caused by voltage changes.
  • Consider purchasing surge protectors with cable and phone jacks to provide similar protection to your phone, fax, computer modem, and television.
  • Heavy reliance on power strips is an indication that you have too few outlets to address your needs. Have additional outlets installed by a qualified, licensed electrician.
  • Keep liquids, including drinks, away from electrical items such as televisions and computers.
 
Electrical safety awareness and education among consumers, families, employees, and communities will prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. Visit ESFI’s Virtual Home at http://virtualhome.esfi.org to learn more about home electrical safety.
 
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May to increase public awareness of the electrical hazards around us at home, work, school, and play. ESFI is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated exclusively to promoting electrical safety. For more information about ESFI and National Electrical Safety Month, visit www.electrical-safety.org.
 
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