This one gadget alone sums up the importance of electricity in a household. However, apart from that, let’s not forget the daily use of power required for lights, fans, microwaves, gizmos, etc. If, on the one hand, these multiple appliances make electrical supply an even more integral part of our everyday living, then on the other, they may also lead to an increase in the electrical load of a household, causing fire, accidents, or even electrocutions because of a short circuit.

Electrical safety is a crucial aspect of maintaining a secure and functional home environment. Preventing electrical disasters requires proactive measures and regular maintenance. Here are some essential tips and measures, as highlighted by HPL India, to protect your home from electrical hazards.

So, let’s look at 5 simple ways to protect your home from electrical disasters-

1. Regular Inspection and Maintenance

Regular inspection of your home’s electrical system is the first line of defense against potential hazards. Hire a licensed electrician to perform routine checks on wiring, circuit breakers, and outlets. Look out for signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires or discolored outlets, which can indicate overheating or damage.

1. Upgrade Outdated Wiring

Older homes often have outdated wiring systems that are not equipped to handle modern electrical loads. Upgrading to contemporary wiring standards can significantly reduce the risk of electrical fires. Aluminum wiring, common in older homes, should be replaced with copper wiring, which is more durable and conductive.

1. Install Safety Devices

Invest in safety devices like circuit breakers, surge protectors, and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Circuit breakers automatically cut off power in the event of an overload or short circuit, preventing potential fires. Surge protectors shield your appliances from voltage spikes, while GFCIs protect against electric shocks in areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens.

1. Avoid Overloading Outlets

Overloading outlets is a common cause of electrical fires. Avoid plugging too many high-wattage appliances into a single outlet or power strip. Distribute the electrical load across multiple outlets and consider having additional outlets installed if needed. Using appliances within their recommended voltage limits also helps prevent overloading.

1. Proper Use of Extension Cords

Extension cords should be used sparingly and only as a temporary solution. They are not designed to replace permanent wiring. When using extension cords, ensure they are of high quality and rated for the power load they will carry. Avoid running them under carpets or across doorways, as this can cause wear and create tripping hazards.

Despite these precautionary steps, if someone does get an electric shock, take the below measures–

1. Don’t touch the person in shock. He/she may still be in contact with the electrical source, and touching may pass the current through you.
2. Call for medical assistance
3. Switch off the source of electricity; if possible, else move it away from you and the affected person.
4. Touch the electrical source with non-conductors of heat, such as cardboard, plastic, or wood.
5. Once the person is free from the electricity source, check his/her breathing and pulse. If it is dangerously slow or has stopped, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) immediately.
6. If the person is pale, shows other signs of shock, or has fainted, lay him/her down with the head slightly lower and the legs elevated.
7. Don’t touch burns, break blisters, or remove burned clothing. Take him/her to the doctor.

Now that you are aware of the protective measures and some immediate steps to prevent electrical disasters at home, it is also vital to use top-quality switches and wires from companies like HPL India. This will assure the unlikelihood of such situations to arise.