May is National Electrical Safety Month | Home & Garden

May is National Electrical Safety month, and Dixie Electric Company is celebrating it by providing a series of safety tips that homeowners should know. This is the first of a series of releases with helpful information, and it discusses an important topic: protecting homes and families from the potential of electrical fires.
 
A study by the nation’s independent insurance agents found that more than 18 million American homeowners never check for electrical hazards. That is one out of every four. Electrical home fires result in 900 deaths a year and over $1.7 billion in property damage.
 
“These are startling statistics that should have everyone checking their homes. It’s incredibly easy to do, and you will be providing yourself with peace of mind that your family is safe and sound,” John Yelverton, president of Dixie Electric Company, said.
 
Here are some easy things people can do to prevent electrical fires in the home:

• Check for loose-fitting plugs that can overheat.
• Put safety covers on all unused outlets accessible to small children.
• Walk around the house and touch all outlet plates. If any of them are hot to the touch or discolored, there may be a dangerous heat buildup at the connections.
• Never remove the third prong, the ground pin, to make it fit into a two-conductor outlet. This could lead to an electrical shock.
• Use the proper sized light bulb that is recommended for a fixture or lamp.
• Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely because loose bulbs may overheat.
• Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis—improper use is a major reason for home fires.
• Replace smoke detector batteries twice a year.

Experts also recommend that homeowners have their homes evaluated by a licensed electrician at least once a year. Home electrical systems can change dramatically over the course of 12 months, and in doing so, potential safety concerns can develop.
 
Source:  Dixie Electric Company