Fires are dangerous and costly, but most
electrical fires can be prevented simply by using electrical equipment safely
and properly. Be aware of the
dangers of electricity, and follow these guidelines to prevent an electrical
fire from happening in your home. To
keep your family safe, please make sure everyone understands this important
safety information:
·
Don’t overload outlets with too
many plugs. Overloaded circuits are
the leading cause of electrical fires.
·
Ensure that all cords are in good
working condition. A frayed or
damaged cord could be hazardous.
·
Make sure the cord is adequate for
the job. Match the wattage or
amperage on appliances with that on the cord before using them.
·
Keep cords clear of obstructions.
Don’t run them under carpets or furniture, as they may become damaged
or overheated.
·
Overheated cords cause insulation
to melt or burn away, exposing live wires that can spark and start a fire.
Frayed or damaged cords are also dangerous for this reason.
Despite all efforts to prevent the, fires can
still happen. To ensure your safety
if a fire should occur:
·
Keep smoke detectors and fire
extinguishers in appropriate places throughout your home and in good working
condition.
·
Call the fire department
immediately. If the fire is small
and non-threatening, use a fire extinguisher to douse the flames.
Otherwise, take everyone out of the building at once and wait for the
fire department.
Remember...Never use water to extinguish an
electrical fire. It can result in
serious electrical shock.