The Most Dangerous Item In Our Homes...

The Most Dangerous Item In Our Homes...
53% of household fires can can be traced back to electrical problems. Fire deaths are generally higher when portable heaters and other small appliances are used. Many of these fires can be traced back to the misuse and abuse of extension cords.

Extension cords are one of the most dangerous items we bring into our homes. Overloaded circuits, poor maintenance, improperly sized for application, trip hazards and overheating are a few of the many among perils associated with these items.

The attached photo is a classic example why insurance companies classify extension cords as a fire safety hazard. The home owner used an extension cord that was designed and rated for light duty use such as lamps and other "light duty" appliances to run the air conditioner unit. Depending upon the size or tonnage of the unit, these can pull any where from 12 - 15 continuous duty amps which severely overloads the capacity of this light duty cord which is rated for 5-7 continuous duty amps.

For Your Own Safety
• Routinely check your electrical appliances and wiring.
• Frayed or cracked wires cause fires. Replace them immediately.
• Replace any electrical tool if it shocks, overheats, shorts out, or gives off smoke or sparks.
• Keep electrical appliances away from wet floors and counters.
• Be mindful of electrical appliances in the bathroom and kitchen.
• Only buy electrical products evaluated by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or other Nationally recognized lab.
• Keep clothes, curtains, and other potentially combustible items at least three feet from all space heaters.
• If an appliance has a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-slot outlet. Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.
• Don't allow children to play with or around electrical appliances like space heaters, irons, and hair dryers.
• Use safety closures to "child-proof" electrical outlets.
• Use electrical extension cords wisely; never overload extension cords or wall sockets.
• Immediately shut off, then professionally replace, light switches that are hot to the touch and lights that flicker.

This posting and the contents herein are the intellectual property of Michael Thornton of Complete Home Inspections, Inc. providing home inspections for Brentwood, Nashville, Davidson and Williamson County TN. This post is a contribution to the ActiveRain Real Estate Network.