Four Quick Fixes Before They Become Electrical Emergencies

May is National Electrical Safety Month, and what better way to raise awareness than to discuss four common fixes a homeowner should make before they become electrical emergencies.  

Overloaded electrical outlets and power strips

Your friends at Lippolis Electric suggest you look around your house for outlets or power strips with more than one or two plugs.  These are sometimes hidden by drapes, curtains, and furniture, so give it a good look.  An obvious sign of trouble is a power strip plugged into another power strip.  You will find this frequently under a desk with a computer in use.  Each plug serving an electronic device may not add up to excessive power consumption, but multiple plugs can and will overload that circuit.  Also, consider unplugging cords used to recharge phones, tablets, laptops, etc., when not in the environment will thank you.

Outlets in proximity to water or dampness. 

Water, electricity, and you make a bad mix.  Outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, garages and outside your house all require special ground fault outlets that keep all your loved ones safe from the harmful effects of electrical exposures.

Extension Cords

Using extension cords around the home is a common practice but should be viewed with a degree of caution. As time passes, the extension cord’s outer covering begins to deteriorate, especially if it is worn by foot traffic and abrasion occurs.  This can easily lead to shock exposure or, worse, fire.  Here are a few things you need to know:

• • Use only listed extension cords for known testing agencies like UL
  • Check the wire gauge of each cord-AWG #16 should be the minimum
  • Do not think of an extension are permanent wiring-they are only temporary
  • Do not run cords through doorways, under carpets or through windows
  • If the cord feels hot or is arcing (sparks), call Lippolis Electric immediately
  • Replace cords that appear damaged or when the copper conductor become visible
  • Consider having Lippolis Electric visit your home and render a price to have additional outlets installed where you need them and rid your home forever of the need for extension cords.

Inquisitive Children

It is the nature of all children to explore and learn about the world around them however it is incumbent upon adults to know when to block such explorative fingers.  Having tamper-resistant outlets installed throughout your home that prevent access to forks or other metal objects will ensure the friendly face of an outlet does not become a menace to all. Following these simple tips will give you a richly deserved peace of mind.