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Common Electrical Safety Hazards & How to Handle Them

From washing clothes to playing games, nearly all of our daily activities rely on working electricity. But when something goes awry with your New York home’s electrical system, the consequences can be extremely dangerous. While it’s not a good idea to attempt electrical repairs without the proper training, it’s still important for homeowners to understand when an electrical issue is especially hazardous and how to handle the matter appropriately.

At Lon Lockwood Electric, our team of highly skilled electricians understands how to approach even the most complex electrical issues. Using the industry’s most advanced tools and techniques, we’ll ensure your home’s electrical system is safe and fully functional in no time. If you’re experiencing an electrical hazard in your home, contact our team to schedule repair services today.

The Most Common Electrical Safety Hazards in NY Homes

The first step in preventing against an electrical safety hazard is understanding when and why they exist in the first place. There are many different hazards for homeowners to look out for, including the following:

  • Poorly Performing or Defective Wiring: Poor or defective wiring can be extremely dangerous, increasing your chances of electrical fire, power surges, arc faults, and other serious problems. Homeowners can easily identify faulty wiring by watching for loose or improper connections in outlets or switches, frayed appliances or extension cords, damaged appliances, or signs that rodents have chewed on electrical wires.
  • Outlets & Water: We all know that water and electricity do not mix, but sometimes outlets can be installed too close to a sink, faucet, bathtub, or dishwasher. Ensure your outlets are located at a safe distance from your water source and never use electrical devices in the bath, near the pool, or when the floor’s surface is wet.
  • Wet Hands: While we’re on the subject of water and electricity, it’s crucial that you ensure your hands are completely dry before interacting with electrical devices, appliances, outlets, and switches. Failure to do so may result in an electric shock — yikes!
  • Water & Electrical Fires: One of the biggest mistakes made when an electrical fire ensues is pouring water to extinguish the flames. Water will actually further fuel the fire and could cause electrocution. Ensure your home has a fire extinguisher so you can safely put out an electrical fire should one occur.
  • Children & Electricity: Toddlers and young children are more prone to tampering with electrical devices and equipment as they explore their surroundings. Take extra precautions by replacing outlets within their reach with EXTRA-SAFE power points to prevent against fingers or sharp objects being inserted into the socket.
  • Extension Cords: Depending solely on extension cords for your power needs can increase your risk of a slip-and-fall accident. Not only this, but plugging too many appliances into an extension cord can lead to damaged equipment.
  • Lightbulbs: It may not be immediately apparent to most, but lightbulbs can be extremely dangerous if kept near flammable materials. Make sure your lightbulbs are a safe distance away from beds, drapes, plastics, and other flammable items to prevent against electrical fire. Additionally, always turn off the light switch before replacing a lightbulb and use the correct wattage to prevent against overheating.
  • Covered Cords & Wires: Heavy covering of cords and wires can lead to overheating and ultimately electrical fire. Keep all cords and wires uncovered at a safe distance from other items, and ensure electrical devices like computers and TVs have enough space for proper ventilation to prevent overheating.

By taking a few extra precautions, you can prevent against experiencing an electrical hazard in your home. Sometimes, however, despite our best efforts, electrical issues can still arise. When this happens, it’s always best to seek repair services from an expert electrician.

When to Schedule Electrical Safety Hazard Repairs & Services

Electrical repairs should never be attempted by anyone who has not received the proper training. Especially if you experience the following signs of imminent electrical safety hazards, it’s highly recommended that you contact a professional electrician immediately:

  • Scorch marks on outlets or switches
  • Burning odor from outlets, switches, or appliances
  • Frequent power surges or tripped circuits
  • Electric shock from touching outlets, switches, or appliances

Never attempt to resolve an electrical issue on your own. Contact your local professional, and — if the problem is especially dangerous — stay with a neighbor, friend, or family member until the problem is resolved by an electrician.

Lon Lockwood Electric for NY’s Electrical Service Needs

At Lon Lockwood, our team of expert electricians has the skills and expertise necessary to address your electrical safety hazard concerns. From broken electrical panels to faulty wiring, there’s no electrical problem too complex for our team. Contact us today to schedule electrical safety hazard repair services for your New York home!