Welcome to Electrical Safety 101
Class is back in session.
All private and public K-12 schools in the Greater Philadelphia area were advised to start with remote-only learning this fall due to the global pandemic.
This will be an adjustment for the kids. Being on a set class schedule in an environment where they’re used to binge-watching Netflix or playing Fortnite. Sorry kids.
Our local students and parents will be spending even more time at home. And, while they all adjust to this new learning environment, we must educate them on safety around the home. Not only for their safety but for the safety of the home.
The topic we’ll be focusing on? The basics of electrical safety.
The class will be taught by our professional and knowledgeable electricians.
Hold all of your questions until the end.
Let’s dive into electrical safety 101 and the basics of safety around the home.
Electrical Accidents are all too Common
According to Electrical Safety Foundation International (EFSI), home electrical fires account for an estimated 51,000 fires each year.
You can read more about those statistics in our article here.
With a number that high, it’s important to be aware of how you and your family can stay safe as the hectic back to school season kicks into high gear.
Let’s take a look at a few helpful tips.
Lesson #1 – Pull the Plug, Not the Cord
Pulling cords from outlets can be extremely dangerous.
Wires can become frayed and exposed, which is a major safety hazard. Exposed wires can lead to an electric shock or fires.
When you’re disconnecting devices from your dedicated remote learning setup, it’s important to pull the plug, not the cord.
Lesson #2 – Don’t Overload an Outlet
Overloading or over-charging an outlet is a very common occurrence.
While using power strips and extension cords can very convenient, it’s important not to overdo it.
Many believe once a power strip is plugged into an outlet, plugging in a lot of appliances is OK. However, that is not the case.
Most rooms will only have one circuit meaning all the electricity is being shared. If a circuit reaches its maximum amperage, a circuit breaker is triggered or a fuse will “blow.”
You can avoid these repairs by staying aware of how many appliances and devices are running at one time.
Lesson #3 – Metal Doesn’t Belong in the Microwave
Your microwave is not a fan of metal music. The same goes for metal materials.
For some, this may seem like common sense, but for others, this can be a life-saving lesson.
Every year, millions of students move into a university dorm or apartment and are forced to eat that dreaded microwavable dorm food.
Microwaves heat water molecules in your food causing them to move and heat up. The molecules in metal heat up quickly and have nowhere to go causing them to catch fire.
So make sure you double-check for metals before hitting that start button. And avoid playing Metallica for your microwave.
Lesson #4 – Safety Check Your Surroundings
Outlets won’t always be where you want, especially with your new remote-learning workspace. Electrical cords may be running all over your room.
You could call our electricians and have them upgrade the workspace with the installation of new outlets and switches.
Or, you could keep yourself safe by checking the surrounding areas.
For example, look out for loose papers or books near your power outlets. Failing to clear the surrounding area can lead to an increased chance of a fire.
It’s also important to be smart about the placement of liquids. Keep liquids far enough away so that if spillage occurs it will not come in contact with your appliances or devices.
Thanks for Attending Electrical Safety 101
Without a doubt, we understand how hectic the back-to-school season can be for parents and students. Especially now with the ‘new norm’ of remote-learning.
Don’t let electrical safety fall to the wayside. Be aware of how you and your family can stay safe.
If you would like to upgrade your remote-learning workspace, give our expert electricians a call. Our team can install new electrical outlets, switches, ceiling fans, and much more.
Our electricians can help make remote-learning work for your children.