August 12, 2006
How To Prevent Electrical Fires In Your Home
While it is a good idea to take a good homeowners insurance policy to provide for any losses, it is an even better idea to prevent losses. As the age-old adage goes: Prevention is always better than cure. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take a homeowners insurance policy. What I’m trying to say is that there are certain situations, which are under our control, and if we take care, we can prevent dangerous situations from occurring. According to statistics, home electrical fires claim the lives of 200 Americans each year and injure 1,500 more. Let’s check out some simple steps that will help you prevent loss of life or property from electrical fires.
You must regularly check your electrical appliances and wiring. Faulty electrical outlets and old wiring are the main causes of electrical fires. Problems with cords and plugs, such as extension and appliance cords, are cited as the primary cause of home electrical fires.
You must keep a look out for frayed wires and replace all worn, old, or damaged appliance cords immediately. Never overload electrical extension cords.
The next highest causes of electric fire are electric stoves. However, it has been found that careless cooking is the reason for these fires and not stove malfunction. Here you must firstly learn the right methods of using electric stoves. Secondly, pay special care to all electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen and keep them away from wet floors and counters.
Don’t buy an electrical appliance that doesn’t meet the UL standard for safety. You don’t want to compromise on your life for a few dollars less.
Children should not be allowed to play with or around electrical appliances like space heaters, irons and hair dryers. Heaters are quite dangerous and you should keep clothes, curtains and any other inflammable items away from the heaters. A three-feet distance is recommended.
Finally, always ensure that your smoke detector is in good working condition.
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