Electrical Safety at Home

Stopping Accidents Before They Happen

Electrical hazards don’t readily come to mind when we think of accidents in the home, but their consequences can be severe. To keep your home as safe as possible, we have a checklist of common areas and objects to check regularly to ensure they are working properly and safely.

Appliances

  • Keep appliances away from sinks, tubs, toilets, showers
  • Keep appliances unplugged while not in use
  • Ensure all appliances are plugged into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)-protected outlets
  • Test GFCI-protected outlets regularly
  • Make sure your refrigerator has room behind it for air circulation, and that there is no dirt or buildup behind it
  • Make sure your washing machine and dryer do not wobble excessively when running, and that both have room behind them for air circulation
  • Do not overload power outlets, strips, or surge protectors
  • Ensure window-mounted air conditioning units are plugged into a dedicated circuit

Outlets and Lighting

  • Make sure you are using GFCI-protected outlets
  • All light switches and outlet covers are not cracked or broken
  • Install safety caps on all unused outlets, especially if children are present
  • Ensure that your lights in the bathroom and shower area are vapor-tight
  • Do not use extension cords to plug in lamps and other lights
  • Ensure all your light fixtures are using bulbs that do not exceed the maximum wattage of the fixture

Cords and Cables

  • Unplug all cords and cables when they are not in use
  • Extension cords should not be used on a permanent basis
  • Do not use extension cords for high-use electrical equipment
  • Make sure cords are not cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged
  • Do not hang cables from tables, counters, or other furniture
  • Do not conceal cords beneath rugs or other furniture

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