TOPIC: Home Electrical Safety

May is National Electrical Safety Month. The Sun City Fire Department would like to take a few moments to share some simple tips and information to help identify any electrical hazards within your home. As of 1998, there were 38, 300 reported home electrical fires resulting in 284 deaths, 1,184 injuries, and $668.8 million dollars in direct property damage. (National Fire Protection Agency). Listed below are some general electrical safety tips that may make your home a safer place:

Limit usage of extension cords (besides possible electrical hazard, it can also pose as a tripping hazard) Purchase only UL (Underwriters Laboratories) rated power cords.
Avoid overloading your electrical outlets –consider plugging only one high wattage appliance per outlet – only two lower wattage devices per outlet.
Allow air space behind and around appliances such as a television. (Prevent possible overheating)
Check light fixtures for maximum light bulb wattage and use light bulbs that are of proper wattage.
Replace or repair loose or frayed cords on all electrical devices.
Avoid running extension cords across doorways or under carpeting.
Follow manufactures instructions for plugging an appliance into an outlet. Never force a plug into an outlet if it does not fit.
Items that can burn and use appropriate light bulbs rated for appropriate wattage which is specific to the light fixture

If you detect any broken electrical outlets, or see visible damage, make sure to have a licensed professional complete the necessary repairs! For general electrical fire safety tips, please contact the Sun City Fire Department of Public Education and Safety during normal business hours (Monday-Friday 8:00am- 4:00pm) by calling (623) 974-2321.