The weather and our lifestyles change with each season of the year. Warmer weather in the spring and summer encourages many people to get outside and enjoy a lot of outdoor activities while cooler temperatures in the fall and winter encourage many people to stay indoors and warm up.
During the winter season, the temperature can get really cold. This forces our HVAC and electrical systems to work twice as hard. During the winter and holiday season, we use various forms of electrical equipment to make our homes warm and inviting. We decorate our homes with holiday lights, all through the night, both inside and out. Because of this, overloaded electrical outlets and faulty wires are most likely to happen during the winter and holiday season. They also happen to be the most common cause of fires. Fortunately, you can take steps to help prevent this from happening.
- Try to carefully read the manufacturer’s instruction manual to identify the principles that guide the equipment.
- Never overload your house electrical circuits.
- Try to pull from the plug and not the cord itself when disconnecting an electrical cord.
- Ensure all outdoor plugs and panels are designed to withstand the elements.
- Dispose of any overheating extension cords.
Space heaters
Modern space heaters are much safer now than they used to be. Still, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, space heaters are involved in more than a thousand home fires every year. Here are a few ways of maintaining your space heater safe.
- Supervise children and properly educate them about it.
- Avoid placing a space heater within 3 feet of anything flammable.
- Properly check if the space heater plug is in good condition.
- Ensure it is only operated on the floor.
Electric blanket
Modern electric blankets are much safer than their predecessors. This is because they have safety features, such as an automatic shut-off. To minimize the risk of unsafe outcomes, a person should follow these safety guidelines:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Avoid touching the blanket with wet hands, feet, or hair.
- Turn the blanket off when going to sleep.
- Ensure it is switched off and unplugged when not in use.
- Roll the blankets loosely to avoid damaging the heating elements.
Safety electrical check
Winterizing your home’s electrical system and any electric appliances or gadgets can help protect your home and your family. Follow these safety recommendations to mitigate the electrical risks associated with winter.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Use surge protectors.
- Trim overgrown trees.
- Check your home’s electrical wiring.
- Unplug non-essential electrical devices
The winter holiday season can get hectic at times. By following these electrical safety tips you can help keep your home and family safe from electrical emergencies. If you need help avoiding any potential hazards or problems with your electrical system, make sure to reach out to your trusted local electrician.