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For those of who you may not be aware, May is National Electrical Safety Month, a time where information about how to Stay Electrically Safe and Smart is of all importance, bringing attention to the necessity of being aware of electrical hazards to avoid. And we at Bill’s Quality Electric, LLC are happy to share an Electrical Safety Checklist you can use to stay informed about how you can keep yourself and loved ones safe in your place in the home and at work. Without further ado, here is a list of tips to aid you in electrical safety: 1. Extension cords: Always remember, whether you’re using them indoors or outdoors, (and be sure to get the right kind based on where you need one!), extension cord usage should always be temporary. They are not purposed for long term usage since that can lead to overheating and electrical fires. And also remember not to daisy chain with more than one for added reach. This can also lead to electrical fires from overload. 2. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters: GFCI are your electrical safety best friend when it comes to areas where it’s wet such as the kitchen or bathroom sink. If you have an older home, be sure to have your outlets upgraded to GFCI if they aren’t already to keep you out of shocking territory, which can cause fatality. 3. Electrical Cords: Whether it’s the cord on an electrical appliance you’re using in the kitchen or bathroom, keep an eye out for wear and tear. And when you plug them in and unplug them, be sure to grab it by the cord end so the cord itself doesn’t become damaged, which can lead to electrical fire from overheating or electrical shock. And don’t wrap the cord around the appliance when not in use for the same reason. Follow manufacturers instructions for proper care. 4. Internet Devices: Whether you’re charging or using your cell/smart phone, your laptop or ipad, etc, be sure not to leave them on combustable material such as a couch, chair with fabric, or bedding, thus possibly leading to fires. Just being mindful of your usage, especially when moving from one room to another, can go a long way toward electrical safety. 5. Power Sources: Whether plugging directly into a single outlet with adapters or using a power strip, be sure not to overload such electrical options; always watch your wattage with what you plug in. Too much wattage can lead to electrical fires. 6. Lighting: Whether it’s a floor, desk top or clip on lamp, be sure to plug in your portable task lighting directly into an outlet and be sure those cords don’t end up pinched around or under furniture, causing breakage to the wire, which can lead to overload and electrical fires. And be sure there is distance between that lamp and combustable materials such as curtains, paperwork, etc. 7. Smoke Alarms: Be sure to have a smoke alarm in every bedroom and in the corridor within 10 foot of any bedroom and test them monthly to be sure they are in proper working order, whether they are wired in or battery operated. A working smoke alarm can make all the difference in the case of an electrical fire or any kind of fire toward alerting you just in time to get out safely. So, there you have it! A handy check list to help you be aware of electrical hazards to avoid so you can Stay Electrically Safe and Smart! You’re welcome to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for future tips and updates on electrical safety, fire and shock prevention so you can stay informed. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel, which is Your Electrical Safety Resource! If you own a business or home in Collin County area of North Texas and are in need of electrical service, repair or installation (especially after going over this check list!), give us a call at 214.697.3134 to schedule an appointment with Bill’s Quality Electric, LLC. We look forward to doing business with you! 