May is Electrical Safety Month
Electricity is something we often take for granted. Because it’s so intertwined into our daily lives, from powering smartphones to providing lighting in even the most obscure locations, we can often forget the dangers that come with it. When not properly installed or respected, there are significant risks of injury or fire from electrical hazards. That is why we highlight National Electrical Safety Month during the month of May.
Each year, 35,000 home fires are the result of an electrical malfunction. It’s important to be aware of the warning signs of an overloaded electrical system. Here’s what to look for:
- Frequent tripping of circuit breakers or blowing of fuses
- Dimming of lights when other devices are turned on
- Buzzing sound from switches or outlets
- Discolored outlets
- Appliances that seem under-powered
With thousands of electrical malfunctions every year, how can you avoid overloading circuits in your home? An easy first step is to understand what’s actually on the circuits in your home. You should make sure that a qualified electrical professional performs your home’s electrical installations and labeling. Another responsible change would be to reduce your electrical usage through energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
Click here to learn more about electrical safety.
