At Brisbane Air, our air conditioning and electrical services experts have drawn up this list of 10 tips for electrical safety in the home.
1. Look after your electrical appliances
Always follow instructions, and hold a plug to connect and disconnect from the socket. Ensure your appliances are in good order, and pay special attention to cords: worn electric cords should be replaced by a licensed electrician.
2. Safeguard from children
Make your electric outlets childproof.
3. Teach children about the dangers of electricity
Children love copying, it’s how they learn. When using electricity, set a good example and talk to your children about how to use the electric appliances safely.
4. Protect against power surges
A power surge is unpredictable, and can damage computers, televisions, air conditioners, and other expensive devices. Always unplug appliances when not in use.
5. Use safety devices
Surge protectors will help protect appliances whilst in use, and safety switches – a legal requirement in new homes – cut the power within 0.03 seconds of a problem occurring. A licenced electrician will be happy to advice on the most appropriate safety devices to use.
6. Beware of overhead and underground power lines
Keep clear of power lines when working on electrics, particularly when repairing a roof, pruning trees, or working on a swimming pool. If work is needed underground, always make certain it’s safe to do so and check with the Dial Before You Dig service on 1100.
7. Water and electricity don’t mix
Remove electric appliances from bathrooms, near sinks, or by the pool, always drying hands before touching electrical appliances. When using appliances near water only ever use electric cords designed for use in wet areas.
8. Feel a tingle, call an expert
If you feel tingling when using an electric appliance, turn off the electric at the mains and call a licenced electrician. You should keep abreast of emergency procedures, too.
9. Report faults immediately
Any electrical accident which requires medical treatment should be reviewed and the source of the problem resolved, to precent recurrence. Also, as a tenant, if you notice a potential electrical hazard, you should report this to your landlord or property manager and request immediate rectification.
10. Call the experts
Never attempt electrical work yourself: always use the services of a licenced electrician. They know what they’re doing, they’ll have all the right equipment, and their work will be guaranteed.
A little expense will save a lot of heartache.