Flipping a light switch. Plugging in a coffee maker. Charging a laptop computer. These are second nature for most of us. Electricity makes our lives easier. However, we need to be cautious and keep safety in mind.
Electrical Safety Tips
- Always plug major appliances — refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers — directly into a wall outlet.
- Do not overload outlets.
- Insert plugs fully into sockets.
- Never force a 3-prong cord into a 2-slot outlet.
- Install tamper-resistant electrical outlets if you have young children.
- Do not overload power strips.
- Use power strips that have internal overload protection.
- Replace worn, old or damaged extension cords right away.
- Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched, like under a carpet or rug.
- Never use an extension cord with a major appliance. The extension cord can overheat and start a fire.