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woman inserting plug in electrical socket

It goes without saying that home electrical safety is something that’s too important to ignore – especially during a period when a worldwide pandemic is raging on and we’re spending all of our time quarantined at home.

According to a report from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, around 31,000 home electrical fires occur every year, and around 180 cases involve electricity-related accidents or electrocutions that could have been avoided.

So to help you ensure home electrical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve put together a list of pro tips. Here they are.

Watch Out For Overloaded Electrical Outlets

One of the most prevalent causes of electrical problems is overloaded outlets. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that all electrical outlets in your home are in proper working order, have protective faceplates, and are cool to touch. The following are some additional tips on ensuring electrical outlet safety:

  • Avoid using multi-outlet converters or extension cords with appliances.
  • Don’t use a single outlet to power multiple heat-producing appliances.
  • If one of your electrical outlets is overheating, get it checked by a professional electrician immediately.
Get Damaged Electrical Cords Repaired or Replaced

Damaged or worn-out power chords pose a serious electrical safety hazard, and can potentially cause electrocution or an electrical fire. Therefore, it’s important to regularly check all extension and power cords for signs of cracking and fraying, and making repairs and replacements where necessary. Moreover, power cords shouldn’t be run under furniture or carpets or stapled into place. The weight of the furniture can cause damage to the insulation of the cord insulation, and cords running under rugs can create a tripping hazard.

Furthermore, if you’re using multiple extension cords, it means there aren’t enough outlets in your home to fit your needs. Get a professional electrician to install additional electrical outlets in places where you commonly use extension cords.

Unplug Electrical Appliances when they’re Not in Use

This is perhaps the easiest electrical safety tip to follow – and one that’s easiest to forget as well: when you’re not using an appliance, unplug it. Not only does this drive down your electricity consumption by reducing phantom drain, but it also minimizes the risk of the appliance getting damaged from overheating or a power surge.

If you’re located in Philadelphia and require the services of a reliable licensed electrician, get in touch with BG Electric LLC. We cater to the needs of both residential and commercial clients.

Top-Quality Electricians in Philadelphia, PA