May is National Electrical Safety Month
An average of 51,000 electrical home structure fires occur each year, claiming almost 500 lives, injuring more than 1,400 people, and causing more than $1.3 billion in property damage (National Fire Protection Association). In addition, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that nearly 400 people are electrocuted in the U.S. each year.
Extension Cord Safety - Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and workplace.
Prevent Electrical Overloads - Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. Help lower your risk of electrical fires by not overloading your electrical system.
Warning signs include:
- Flickering, blinking, or dimming lights
- Frequently tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
- Warm or discolored wall plates
- Crackling, sizzling, or buzzing from receptacles
- Burning oder coming from receptacles or switches
- Mild shock or tingle from appliances, receptacles, or switches
source: Electrical Safety Foundation
GFCI vs AFCI - What are they and why are they important?
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter - Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters help prevent burns, electric shocks and electrocution. A GFCI has sensors that measure the current going in and out. Normally, the current is balanced. However, if the current is out of balance, something is wrong. The electric current has made contact with a human, or somewhere else it should not be. The GFCI senses this and instantly shuts down the circuit, stopping the flow of electricity. Since water is an electric conductor, GFCIs are important in areas where water and electricity could meet, such as bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages.
Arc Vault Circuit Interrupter - Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters help prevent electric fires. Electricity can leak out of damaged or decaying wires and start a fire. These fires spread quickly in the wiring behind walls. Electric fires cause more damage than other types of fire, and are twice as deadly. AFCIs sense that electricity is leaking from the electric system and shut electricity off before overheating happens.
source: Safe Electricity
Please give office a call if you have any further questions!
Warm Regards,
William
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