Summer time fun is upon us and now is the season for water sports, cookouts, and camping. This is also the season for hot summer sun and doing anything to stay cool. Electricity is essential during the summer months, everything from outdoor lighting to air conditioning relies on your electrician working properly. With this comes some level of risk, as does anytime you work with electricity.
Here are some tips for staying safe this summer while working with electricity:
First and foremost – any time of year – electricity and water do not mix. In fact, having electricity anywhere near water could be fatal. If you have a pool or water feature of any kind outside, make sure that radios, games, and anything else electrical is nowhere near them. Make sure your children and houseguests now about this also.
Make sure that all electrical connections to your hot tub and swimming pool are completely grounded. If you are uneasy about this, have a professional electrician come out and do an inspection so that you know for sure.
Never connect any major appliance in your home using an electrical cord. Make sure they are each plugged into a grounded outlet that supports the needed wattage. If you choose to have a small refrigerator outside or any other appliance, make sure to add proper electricity and outlets to support these appliances rather than using extension cords.
Bathrooms, laundry rooms, pool rooms, and anywhere else that is considered a ‘wet room’ should be fitted with GFI outlets. These outlets turn the power to themselves off if electricity begins to flow improperly.
Check cords to all appliances and electrical products to make sure there are no signs of damage or fraying. Replace an extension cords that are damaged. Never use an appliance that has a damaged cord.
Make sure that your children know not to climb on or play near power sources. Use child safety outlets when applicable, especially outdoors where kids might be playing on their own for a period of time.
Electrical injuries are some of the worst and most painful kind. Summer is a time for fun, rest, and relaxation. Teach your household these simple electrical safety tips and make sure to avoid any kind of electrical injury this summer.