General Electrical Safety Tips
Providing Top Quality Electrical, Reliability, Efficiency, and Safety Benefits to You, Our Valued Customer
Electricity is a vital part of everyday life but when mishandled, it can be incredibly dangerous. At Expert Electric, we’re committed to keeping homes and businesses safe with professional services and practical advice. In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential general electrical safety tips that every homeowner and renter should know to prevent electrical hazards, fire risks, and costly repairs.
1. Understand Your Electrical Panel
One of the most important general electrical safety tips is knowing how to use your electrical panel. Your breaker box controls the flow of electricity in your home. Learn how to shut off power during an emergency and label each breaker so you can respond quickly if something goes wrong.
2. Avoid Overloading Circuits
Overloading outlets or extension cords is a common mistake that can lead to overheating or electrical fires. Use power strips with built-in circuit breakers and distribute high-wattage appliances (like microwaves and heaters) across different outlets. Never daisy-chain extension cords.
3. Install GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) are essential in bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoors. They protect you from electric shock by cutting off power when an imbalance is detected. If your home doesn’t have GFCIs installed in these areas, it’s time to call a licensed electrician.
4. Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water
This may seem obvious, but water and electricity never mix. Avoid using electrical devices near bathtubs, sinks, or pools. If a plugged-in appliance falls into water—do not touch it. Turn off the power at the breaker and call an electrician immediately. Visit the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI): Home Safety Tips for more water-related electrical tips.
5. Don’t Ignore Flickering Lights or Buzzing Sounds
Frequent flickering, buzzing outlets, or burning smells are all red flags. These could signal loose wiring, arcing, or overloaded circuits. If you notice any of these signs, contact an electrical professional for a safety inspection.
6. Use the Right Bulbs
Make sure the wattage of your light bulbs matches the fixture requirements. Using a bulb with higher wattage than the fixture allows can cause overheating or even a fire. LED bulbs are a safe and energy-efficient option for most homes.
7. Childproof Your Outlets
If you have children, install tamper-resistant receptacles (TRRs) or use plastic outlet covers. These prevent curious hands from inserting objects into the outlets, reducing the risk of electric shock.
8. Schedule Regular Safety Inspections
One of the most overlooked general electrical safety tips is simply having your system inspected. Expert Electric offers a comprehensive 13-Point Safety Check to identify potential hazards, outdated wiring, and hidden problems. Preventative maintenance ensures your electrical system is safe and up to code. You can also read more at the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety: Electrical Safety.
Final Thought
Electrical safety isn’t just about convenience, it’s about protecting your family, your home, and your peace of mind. Following these general electrical safety tips can reduce the risk of fires, shocks, and costly repairs. Whether you’re a new homeowner or just looking for ways to make your space safer, these steps can make a big difference.
Why Choose Expert Electric?
Peace of Mind
Our team performs a 13-Point Safety Check to evaluate your entire system, provide you with a detailed report, and offer quotes for any necessary repairs.
Competent Experts at Your Service
Our electricians are trained, licensed, insured, and bonded. We respect your schedule and provide flexible service appointments.
Preferred Treatment with Our MEE Plan
Our Member Extra Electrical (MEE) Plan boosts your system’s reliability. Need emergency service? MEE members receive priority treatment.
Price Protection You Can Count On
We charge by the job not by the hour. Your pricing agreement is locked in during your contract term, so no surprise fees.
Preventative Maintenance
We catch small issues before they become costly emergencies. Fewer surprises, less downtime, and more savings.
Complete Records
We maintain full documentation of all maintenance and repair work. You’ll always have a clear record of your system’s health.
Transferable Agreement
Our MEE Plan follows you whether you sell your home or move to a new one. Ask our experts how you can carry the plan forward.
