Miami residents understand the importance of maintaining a secure environment for their families. However, some people tend to overlook certain dangers. From a damaging house fire to serious physical injuries, several risks can stem from having electrical safety hazards. It’s critical to address these threats as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common electrical hazards that Miami homes tend to experience.
Common Safety Hazards
Poor Wiring
Poor wiring is among the top causes of residential fires in Miami. Even a seemingly minor spark can cause a home to go up in flames within minutes. To catch potential issues early, Mister Sparky recommends getting an electrical inspection every few years. Several essential parts of your electrical system will be checked, including the wiring.
If there are any signs of wear and tear, you may be advised to upgrade your wiring. The extra peace of mind is well worth it. Furthermore, your home’s resale value will be increased.
Using Light Bulbs With the Wrong Wattage
Some homeowners install new light bulbs without first checking the wattage. This could prove to be a big mistake. If the light bulb’s wattage is too high for the socket, overheating may occur. The chances of a fire being started will increase dramatically.
The maximum wattage is typically stamped on the socket. Adhering to this limit will help keep your household safe.
Overloaded Outlets
Be careful about plugging multiple high-voltage appliances into an outlet. There’s a good chance that an overload will occur. Contrary to popular belief, power strips can also suffer from the same issue.
If the circuit breaker trips, this is a key indication of an overload. Some of the other signs of an overload include scorched plugs, a burning smell, and flickering lights when plugging in an item.
Unprotected Electrical Outlets
When there are small children in the home, never make the mistake of leaving your electrical outlets unprotected. Curious toddlers are known to stick objects into outlets, which could lead to them being shocked. Child safety wall plates are a great investment for parents.
Plugging In Appliances and Other Devices Near Water Sources
Always keep appliances away from water sources. They should not be within five feet of pools, tubs, and sinks. In the event that an outlet gets wet, immediately go to your home’s electrical panel box to shut off the power source.
To give your house an extra degree of protection, consider having Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacles installed in areas that are prone to getting wet. This includes basements, bathrooms, and washer/dryer closets. By automatically shutting off when an interruption of electrical flow is sensed, these special outlets can dramatically lessen the risk of electrical shock.
Misuse of Extension Cords
When used properly, extension cords can prove to be a convenience. However, they can also ignite a fire when the necessary precautions aren’t taken. If you notice that an extension cord is frayed, don’t attempt to repair the damage using electrical tape. The best approach is to throw away the old cord.
An extension cord should also be rated to effectively handle the appliance’s amps and wattage. Don’t expect a thin, flat cord to handle the power demands of an electric space heater.