Not a day goes by that the average person doesn’t use electricity in some way. Modern homes are designed around electrical appliances, and most people use them from the minute they get up in the morning to the moment they shut their eyes and go to sleep. Our lives would be a lot harder without electricity, but it’s important to always remember how dangerous it can potentially be.
When used in the wrong way, electricity is capable of doing serious damage, both to property and to people. Electrical faults or the misuse of electrical appliances can lead to shocks or fires, both of which are extremely dangerous. When using these appliances, it’s important to follow safety guidelines and make sure you’re minimising the risks as much as possible. Here are some of the most essential electrical safety tips you can follow.
Look Out for Damaged Cables
Throughout our homes, cables and wires are used to transmit electricity from the power grid to our devices, ensuring they have enough power for us to use. Cables are covered by a protective coating which is usually made of PVC. Sometimes, wires may also be placed within a conduit to organise and protect them further.
The protective covering of cables helps to insulate them and prevent shocks while also ensuring the cables transmit power correctly. However, it can become damaged over time, especially if the cable is subject to force. While PVC is very durable, wear and tear can happen, and this can be a big safety risk.
To minimise the risk of shocks from damaged cables, you should inspect them regularly. If you notice that a cable is damaged, it’s important to replace it immediately. Waiting for it to get worse will only increase the potential risk of injury or fire.
Avoid Mixing Electricity and Water
You probably already know that mixing most electronic appliances with water is a bad idea. Some appliances, such as kettles, washing machines and dishwashers, may use water, but they’re designed in a way to make it safe. Still, you should avoid using any electrical item if you think that water has seeped into the electronics.
While some modern phones and other devices have been made to be waterproof, it’s still important not to charge them around water sources. Many people use their phones while enjoying a nice soak in the bath, but you definitely shouldn’t do this while it’s plugged in and charging. Using mains electricity around water is a serious recipe for disaster.
The reason why water and electricity shouldn’t mix is that it can easily permeate into a device that hasn’t been waterproofed. Water is far more conductive than air, so once it gets into your device, it can cause damage and even lead to electrocution.
Be Careful with DIY Projects
Due to rising costs and the overall desire to keep things fresh and interesting, home DIY projects are on the rise. More people than ever are picking up power tools and getting stuck in, but doing so comes with risks. Before you start a project, you should always ensure you’re taking the right precautions to minimise potential hazards.Botched DIY projects are a major source of damage within the home, and they could even lead to fatal accidents if you’re not careful. This doesn’t mean you have to avoid doing any DIY work, but you should at least plan things out properly. If you’re using power tools, ensure that they’re properly maintained and avoid drilling or cutting in areas where there are live wires. If you’re working on something electrical, ensure the power is off before you begin.
