Portable Generator Safety – Generate Safety
Before use, learn about the potential dangers associated with portable generators, such as their production of carbon monoxide (CO). CO is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless poisonous gas that is called the “silent killer” because it is virtually undetectable without the use of technology like CO alarms. Follow these tips to generate power AND safety […]
Flood Electrical Safety: High Water, High Stakes
Flooding can occur anywhere, but water and electricity don’t mix. Because electrical hazards may linger after flood waters recede, it’s important to take precautions before, during, and after flooding takes place. Know the Danger On average, more deaths occur due to flooding each year than from any other severe weather related hazard. In the past […]
Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs): Prevent Electrical Fires
What is an Arc-Fault? An Arc-Fault is a dangerous electrical problem caused by damaged, overheated, or stressed electrical wiring or devices. Arc-faults can occur when older wires become frayed or cracked, when a nail or screw damages a wire behind a wall, or when outlets or circuits are compromised. Why do I need Arc-Fault Protection? […]
Don’t Overload Your Home
According to the National Fire Protection Association, 47,700 home fires in the U.S. are caused by electrical failures or malfunctions each year. These fires result in 418 deaths, 1,570 injuries, and $1.4 billion in property damage. Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. Help lower your risk of electrical fires by not […]
National Electrical Safety Month 2016 – Electrical Safety Illustrated 2016: At Home and at Work, Make Electrical Safety Everyone’s Responsibility
In celebration of Electrical Safety Month 2016, ESFI is excited to announce the launch of launch of the third edition of its National Electrical Safety Month publication, Electrical Safety Illustrated. Included in the magazine are a number of topics that address workplace safety along with home safety. We also invite you to follow us on […]
What is a Tamper Resistant Receptacle?
TRRs resemble regular receptacles but they’re so much more. In fact, they provide a permanent solution to childhood shock caused by tampering with electrical outlets. TRRs feature built in safety shutters that block foreign objects from being inserted into the receptacle. TRRs required by the National Electrical Code since 2008 Internal shutters block foreign objects […]
Avoid the 12 Dangers of Christmas
Learn from the mistakes of the naughty Christmas elf as you and your loved ones celebrate the holiday season. While the holidays are a characteristically joyous time of year, they can also be hazardous if simple safety precautions aren’t followed. Learn from the mistakes of the naughty Christmas elf as you and your loved ones […]
Not all Imposters are Easy to Spot: Avoid Counterfeit Electronics
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 […]
Holiday Fire Prevention: It’s the Gift That Keeps on Giving
Between 2009-2013, U.S. fire departments responded to an annual average of 860 home structure fires that began with holiday decorations and an additional 210 home structure fires that began with Christmas trees according to the National Fire Protection Association. Keep decorations or any other flammable items at least 3 ft away from open flame and heat sources. […]
Holiday Fire Safety Tips
The winter holiday season is traditionally a festive and eventful time of year. Celebrations, family gatherings and visits from house guests traditionally increase in number during the season. Unfortunately, statistics show that incidents of home fires and electrical accidents typically increase during winter months. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 30 percent of […]
Halloween Safety
It’s Not a Trick. Treat Yourself to Safety Curiosity leads to many things, not all of them safe. Protect children by installing Tamper Resistant Receptacles in your home. This permanent, cost-effective solution prevents injuries and deaths caused by the insertion of foreign objects into outlets. Avoid using dried flowers, corn stalks or hay in your festive decorations. […]
Are Your Halloween Traditions a Trick or a Treat?
Are your Halloween traditions a trick or a treat? Our illustrated tip sheet will let you know if real danger is lurking in your Halloween décor Trick: Costumes can catch fire! Avoid costumes with billowing or long trailing fabric. If you are making your own costumes, choose fire-resistant materials. Never use electrical products outdoors that […]