Your Guide to Buying Electronics

Safety First: A Gift Giving Guide from ESFI Know Where to Buy: Buy electronics from reputable retailers, in-store or online, that stand behind their products and can provide help if something goes wrong.  Safety Certifications Matter: Certifications form testing labs like CSA and UL mean the product has been tested to be safe. CE marks […]

Li-ion Batteries Consumer Survey Results

Download Attachment Lithium-ion Battery Consumer Survey 2024 Results In 2024, the Electrical Safety Foundation International surveyed 423 consumers to identify attitudes and behaviors surrounding lithium-ion batteries. These consumers provided insights about their purchasing decisions, usage, and disposal of batteries and devices that use them. Lithium-ion power devices are everywhere. If you have a rechargeable device, […]

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: What if GFCIs Did Not Exist?

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: What if GFCIs Did Not Exist? Download Attachment What is a GFCI? Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) were first introduced in the bathrooms of homes as required by the 1975 edition of the National Electrical Code. Prior to 1975, only outdoor receptacles and receptacles near swimming pools require GFCI protection. Since […]

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: Preventing Electrocution Since 1973

Download Attachment Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) Preventing Electrocutions Since 1971 Since the first introduction of GFCIs in homes, there has been an: 81% drop in electrocutions 95% drop in electrocutions caused by consumer products. The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that: 47% of current electrocutions could be prevented with proper GFCI protection  50% of American homes were […]

How to Safely Use Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion powered devices are everywhere. If you have a rechargeable device, it is probably powered by a lithium-ion (li-ion) battery. These batteries are safe if used correctly but if you use or charge devices that are not listed or certified by testing labs, or if you dispose of the battery or device incorrectly, you may […]

Be Aware of Overhead Power Lines Around Your Home

Always Look Up, Always Contact with overhead power lines is the leading cause of electrical fatalities. Follow these tips to keep safe from overhead power line contact.  Overhead Power Line Contact Tips Be aware of all power lines around your home Know the electrical service entrance to your home; they can be dangerous if contacted […]

What to Know Before Purchasing a Rechargeable Device – Video Short

Rechargeable devices are everywhere; from toothbrushes to laptops to scooters. Those rechargeable devices are probably powered by lithium-ion batteries. So for your safety, it is important to only purchase those rechargeable devices from reputable retailers and manufacturers. If you’re shopping online, make sure you only purchase devices that have been listed and approved by nationally […]

Prepare Your Home for EV Charging – Video Short

Are you thinking of purchasing an electric vehicle (EV)? Make sure your home is ready for EV charging. Have a qualified electrician inspect your home’s electrical panel to ensure it can power electric vehicle charging. Also have a qualified electrician install an EV charger on a dedicated circuit to avoid electrical overloads and fires. 

How to Dispose of Rechargeable Devices – Video Short

Lithium-ion batteries are the rechargeable batteries that power everyday devices like toothbrushes, laptops, flashlights and much more. If it’s rechargeable, it’s probably powered by a lithium-ion battery. These types of batteries need to be disposed of correctly. Do not throw them away in the regular trash or recycling because these type of batteries can cause […]

Always Look Up When Working Outside – Video Short

When working outside on a home project, you have to remember to always look up, always! Whether you’re trimming trees, cleaning the gutters, or hanging up lights, first be aware of the electrical hazards around your home, including power lines. 

Qué Saber Antes de Comprar Dispositivos Recargables – Video Short

Los dispositivos recargables están en todas partes. Desde cepillo de dientes, hace laptops y scooters. Esos dispositivos probablemente usan baterías de lithium-ion. Por tu seguridad, es importante solo comprarlo de tiendas o fabricantes de confianza. Si compras en línea, asegúrate de que los dispositivos estén aprobados y certificados por laboratorios como UL y CSA.