Are You Safety Savvy?
In honor of National Electrical Safety Month, put your safety knowledge to the test with our handy quiz. True or False? Using a corded telephone during a lightning storm is safe Why do some outlets have three holes? What should you do when you use a portable generator during a power outage? The ____ industry […]
TRRs: 50 Cents to Protect a Child
What are Tamper Resistant Receptacles (TRRs)? Though they look like standard outlets, only TRRs include a built-in shutter system that prevents foreign objects from being inserted. Only a plug that applies simultaneous, equal pressure to both slots will disengage the cover plates, allowing access to the contact points. Without this synchronized pressure, the cover plates […]
Deadly Deals: Counterfeits
The saying, “If it’s too good to be true, it usually is.” should come to mind when you find electrical products that are far below competitor prices. But electrical products are uniquely hazardous when impersonated. They have not undergone testing by an independent laboratory, likely do not comply with industry safety requirements, and since its […]
Surge and Protect 2014
What is a “Power Surge”? A power surge, or transient voltage, is a sudden and unwanted increase in voltage that can damage, degrade or destroy the sensitive electronic equipment in your home or business. Causes: The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) estimates that 60-80% of surges are created within a facility, such as when large appliances, like […]
2014 NESM
Recovering from a Flood? Have an electrician or electrical inspector determine which electrical equipment and appliances can be restored and which need to be replaced Don’t Become a Victim of the “Silent Killer” Carbon Monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, tasteless gas that is virtually undetectable without the use of detection technology like a CO […]
Cracking The Code: National Electrical Safety Month
Many people are unaware of the protections provided by The National Electrical Code ® (NEC) or the process through which this code becomes law. While it is not necessary to understand the ins and outs, one should be aware of what is at risk when an outdated version is applied. What is the Code? […]
Candle Safety Tips
Candles start almost half of all home fires related to decorations. Minimize your risk with these candle safety tips from ESFI: Avoid using candles when possible. Consider using battery-operated candles in place of traditional candles. Never leave an open flame unattended. Keep burning candles within sight. Place lighted candles away from combustible material such as […]
Pull the Plug on Cord-Related Hazards this Holiday Season
It’s likely that when you think of cords, your main concern is hiding them from view in your holiday decorations. However, cords of all kinds need to be properly inspected, used and stored to reduce your risk of a fire. Follow these tips to help you keep cords out of sight but also safely on your mind. […]
Don’t Go Up in Smoke: E-Cigarette Safety
E-cigarettes seem to be everywhere. Currently 32% of adult smokers use e-cigarettes, and Bloomberg Industries expects e-cigarettes sales to surpass regular cigarette sales by 2023. But e-cigarettes have their own unique problems compared to traditional cigarettes; they are unregulated and fires caused by them have been increasing as the industry expands. Take these steps to […]
College Campus and Dorm Electrical Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Association, firefighters respond to an average of 3,810 fires at college residence halls and Greek housing each year. Help prevent electrical fires with these tips from ESFI: Do not overload extension cords, power strips or outlets. Do not connect multiple extension cords together. Extension cords should never be used […]
Home Wiring Safety Tips
Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) recommends that homeowners have their homes electrically inspected, particularly if: The home is 40 or more years old The home is 10 or more years old and has had major renovation, an addition, or major new appliance installed New owner of a previously owned home The following are some of […]
Fire Safety Planning Checklist
Once the smoke alarm sounds, you may only have a few minutes to get to safety outside the house. You need to plan ahead and be prepared before a fire emergency happens. Follow these simple steps to make sure your family is prepared to make a safe escape!