As electrical appliances become an increasingly integral part of the modern home, it is important to be aware of the dangers they pose. According to the Australian Institute of Home Safety, electrical accidents are one of the leading causes of death and injury in the home.
Testing and tagging Melbourne owner Ryan Hasson explains that as a homeowner, you are responsible for the safety of your family and your home. Electricity is an essential part of our lives, but it can also be dangerous. It is estimated that electrical accidents are responsible for about 30 deaths and more than 2,000 hospitalisations in Australia each year. Many of these accidents could have been prevented if simple safety precautions had been followed.
What are the most common electrical accidents?
Many electrical accidents can happen at home. Some of the most common include electrocution, fires, and shocks. Each year, thousands of people are injured or killed by electrical accidents. While some of these accidents are due to faulty wiring or equipment, many are caused by simple mistakes or lack of knowledge.
Electrocution is one of the most serious types of electrical accidents. It occurs when a person comes into contact with an electrically charged object, such as a live wire. This can happen if someone tries to repair an appliance without first shutting off the power. It can also happen if someone touches a downed power line. Electrocutions can be fatal, and even survivors may suffer from severe injuries, such as burns or cardiac arrest.
Fires are another common type of electrical accident. They can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded outlets, or other problems. Each year, thousands of house fires are started by electrical problems. These fires can cause serious injuries and even death.
Shocks are another type of electrical accident that can occur at home. They happen when a person comes into contact with an electrically charged object and receives a shock. Shocks can range from mild to severe, and they can sometimes be fatal. Many people who survive shocks suffer from burns, myopathy, or other injuries.
Keep your property safe for everyone by using the following tips to avoid any electrical accidents from happening in or around it.
1. Get your home’s electrical system checked by a licensed electrician every 10 years or so. This will ensure that everything is up to code and working properly.
2. Never try to repair or replace any electrical equipment yourself unless you are certain that you know what you are doing. Always call a licensed electrician for any repairs or replacements.
3. Do not overload your electrical outlets by plugging in too many devices. If you need to use multiple outlets, use a power strip with built-in circuit protection.
4. Never touch any electrical equipment that is wet or has been damaged in any way. Always unplug any electrical equipment that has been dropped in water.
5. Keep all flammable materials away from any heaters or other electrical equipment. This includes items such as newspapers, clothes, curtains, and bedding.
6. Never touch an electrical cord or appliance with bare hands or feet. Always use dry, clean hands when handling cords and appliances.
7. Do not run electrical cords under carpets or rugs where they can be damaged. Always keep cords away from high traffic areas to prevent them from being tripped over.
8. Do not knot or pinch electrical cords to shorten them. This can damage the cord and create a fire hazard.
9. Never plug two extension cords together to lengthen them. This can cause an electrical shock or fire.
10. Do not use electrical equipment that has frayed or damaged cords. Always replace any damaged cords before using the equipment again.
11. Unplug all small appliances when they are not in use. This includes items such as toasters, coffee makers, and curling irons.
12. When leaving your home for an extended period, unplug all large appliances and turn off the power at the circuit breaker. This includes items such as air conditioners, water heaters, and stoves.
By following these simple safety tips, you can help to prevent electrical accidents in your home. If you have any questions or concerns about electrical safety, always consult a licensed electrician.
