Stay Safe This 4th Of July With These 5 Home Electrical Safety Tips
Stay Safe This 4th Of July With These 5 Home Electrical Safety Tips
The only sparks flying this 4th of July should be from fireworks. As you host your neighborhood BBQ or venture out on the boat with your family and friends, remember to have fun – but not at the expense of your safety! Here are 5 electrical safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe from the unexpected this holiday.
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Avoid Swimming In Or Near A Marina
Electric Shock Drowning (ESD) can happen to anyone. ESD happens when marina or onboard electrical systems leak electric currents in water and passes through the human body. To be safe, it’s best you avoid swimming in areas where there’s potential for electrical shock.
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Don’t Use Fireworks Near Power Lines
Only light fireworks in open areas with no power lines – or trees – in sight. If a firework accident does involve electric poles or downed power lines, it can be an extremely dangerous situation for people to be in. An accident like this can cause the power line to explode, fall, and even catch on fire. If you happen to find yourself in this situation, don’t attempt to touch any part o the pole. Not only that, but you want to make sure to keep kids and pets away from the area.
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Avoid Grilling Yourself – And Don’t Use Your Grill In Certain Places
You want to grill your hamburgers and hot dogs…not human flesh! Make sure to always have a well-sealed propane tank because propane is easily combustible. If your tank leaks, you’re at risk of getting burned. A good way to know if you have a leak is if you smell gas, such as the smell of a rotten egg. Not only that, but you want to keep your grill out of certain areas. For example, keep it away from pets and kids to avoid potential burn accidents, and also keep it away from power lines, tree branches, and sources of water.
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Use GFCI Outlets Whenever Possible
GFCI outlets are a life saver – quite literally. If an electrical device, such as your electric grill, come in contact with water, a GFCI outlet will instantly trip and prevent electrocution. Not only that, but it can also prevent burns, home fires, and fatalities as a result. They’re designed to detect even the most minor variations in electric current and shut off your appliance before it can cause any harm. Consider installing GFCI outlets to keep you and your family safe this summer.
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Avoid Climbing Trees
This is a good tip for both children AND adults. You should avoid climbing trees – especially ones that are near or touching power lines. By doing so, you’re moving into dangerous territory. Unfortunately, trees conduct electricity and can create a serious safety hazard if limbs grow too close to power lines – or if the branches themselves are actually touching the wires. Whether the tree is touching the power line or not, it’s best to stay clear of trees in close proximity to overhead lines.
Interested in GFCI Outlet Installation Or Something Else? Contact The Pros At Kanon Electric!
Whether you need GFCI outlets installed, a home electrical safety inspection, or something else, Kanon Electric is here for all your electrical needs. Call us today at 253-302-8199 or fill out our online form here to schedule your appointment.
