7 Electrical Safety Tips for your Home

Electrical safety is of paramount importance around every home. So many aspects of domestic life are dependent on electrical appliances and systems, which means we come into contact with electricity more than we realise. Every time we come into contact with electricity, it is important to remember the basic rules of electrical safety. Despite the safeguards that modern electrical systems have implemented, there is always the risk of an electrical accident when using electrical products.

Don’t put your fingers or conductive implements near power points

The most basic of electrical safety tips is to stay away from power points. Unless you are plugging in an appliance or unplugging one, it is best to avoid contact with them altogether. This is especially so as far as conductive substances are involved. Water, metal and even people are all highly conductive. This means that you should avoid touching power points with metal items or your fingers. You should also stay clear of any power points that have come into contact with water.

Stay away from power lines and substations

Power lines and substations conduct unfathomable volumes of electricity at all times. This makes them extremely hazardous without training and the right equipment. If there is a problem with power lines near you, or with your home’s power supply, then call an expert. Under no circumstances should you attempt to rectify or even identify the problem yourself. This also applies to fallen power lines. If you see a fallen power line, stay well clear and alert others of its presence, before immediately calling emergency services.

Supervise children when they are around power lines

When it comes to power lines and substations, adults often see a hazard. Children, however, might see an opportunity to play or climb. Because of this, children should always be supervised when in the vicinity of electrical structures. Even flying a kite in your front yard can be hazardous if there are power lines nearby. Any contact between the power line and the kite could be catastrophic.

Throw out appliances with exposed cords or frayed wires

Old appliances can be an electrical hazard in their own right. Frayed and exposed wires often still conduct high voltages of electricity. Even more concerning is that they are often invisible. It is worthwhile being vigilant and checking your appliance regularly. If they are showing these signs, then you should disconnect them immediately – if safe to do so – and dispose of them. You can get some repaired, so it is worth contacting an electrician for more information.

Avoid pulling out a power plug by the cord

Yanking out a power cord suddenly can cause it to deteriorate over time. Often, the protective outer insulation will pull away from the plug itself. This can leave wires exposed, which creates a serious electrical hazard. Instead, you should hold the plastic plug firmly and pull gently to disconnect it. This places less strain on the insulation and ensures that it remains intact.

Do not overload a power point

Power boards are a handy way to run more than one appliance from a single power point. However, they are a frequent cause of electrical injury and even house fires. Power points are only designed to support a certain number of electrical devices. If you exceed this and draw too much energy from the power point, then you risk electrocution, fire or, at best, damage to your appliances and electrical systems.

Never attempt DIY electrical work

DIY electrical work is not only extremely dangerous, but also illegal. If you need electrical maintenance or services, contact a qualified and licenced electrician. Never, under any circumstances, attempt electrical work yourself. Likewise, never contract someone who is not licensed or qualified, no matter how experienced they claim to be.

For more electrical safety tips, contact the experts at Mercury Services on (07) 3312 4244.