Power Plus

ELECTRICAL SAFETY AROUND THE HOME

Your home's fuse or breaker panel poses potential safety problems. Know and use the correct fuses and breakers for the circuits in your home. Size refers to a circuit's amperage rating. If you don't know the rating, have a qualified electrician identify and label the sizes to be used.

Don't overload branch circuits by running more appliances than the circuits were designed to handle. Remember: Several outlets are usually connected to one branch circuit!

Check for outlets that have loose-fitting plugs. These may overheat and cause a fire.

Replace broken plates on outlets and switches so there will be no exposed wiring.

Use plastic safety covers on all unused outlets accessible to children.

Don't force a plug into an outlet if it won't fit. Plugs should fit securely in outlets.

If an appliance blows a fuse, trips a breaker, or emits sparks or sizzling sounds, disconnect it immediately. Discard the appliance or have it repaired.

Don't place appliance cords where they will come into contact with heated surfaces like stoves or fireplaces.

Young children are curious and may pull on dangling cords. Protect young children by keeping appliance cords tucked away from counter edges.

When not in use, unplug all non-essential electrical appliances. Even the hair dryer on the bathroom counter has a tiny bit of electricity running through it when it's plugged in to an outlet.