Fire-related incidents account for more than 70% of the total electrical incidents investigated by the BC Safety Authority. Some examples of these incidents include:
- operating heaters left unattended,
- equipment placed too close to combustibles, and
- overloaded circuits.
Prevent a fire from destroying your family home or business by following these simple electrical safety tips:
- Keep electrical devices out of the reach of small children.
- Check for anything that is cracked, frayed or broken on cords, plugs, switches and light fixtures. In most cases, regulations require you to hire a licensed electrical contractor for repairs.
- Avoid using extension cords and overloading circuits. Only ever use certified power bars with surge suppressors.
According to BCSA Electrical Safety Manager, Stephen Hinde, “the only way to completely protect your electronics from unusually high power surges or your home from an electrical fire is to unplug everything. When leaving your home unattended, only keep essential items such as refrigerators plugged in.”
Hinde also suggests making the switch to LED lights. “Not only will LED lights consume less power,” says Hinde, “they also produce less heat – which reduces the risk of fire. Always hire a licensed contractor to do the work with proper permits. Faulty wiring is a serious safety hazard.”
To hire a licensed electrical contractors please go to: www.safetyauthority.ca/contact/find-contractor.
To download these and more electrical safety tips, visit http://www.safetyauthority.ca/safety-information/homeowners/electrical.