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5 Electrical Safety Components that you Need in your Home

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We use a number of electrical appliances in our homes, but are we aware of their safety? To make sure that you and your family members don’t fall victim to any electrical accidents, scroll down to learn about some of the electrical services safety components that you should consider installing in your home:

1. Circuit Breakers

You should ensure the circuit panel installed in your home is up to date – it should meet the latest safety requirements. If the electrical panel installed in your home doesn’t meet safety guidelines, you need to replace it. The circuit breakers are automatically operated switches used to detect any imbalance in the flow of currents in and around the circuit, and if it senses electrocution, it immediately shuts down the circuit. They can also be reset to resume operation normally.

2. Arc Fault Protection

Your homes electric panel should be able to protect against arc faults, which refers to the unintentional electric discharges within a circuit. An arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) breaks the circuit whenever it detects any potential arc faults. The AFCI helps in continuously monitoring the panel to detect any possibility of arc faults. The conventional circuit breakers are only suitable to avoid overloads and short circuits, they do not provide any protection against arc faults that arise due to erratic currents within the panel.

3. Outlets and Switches

Any damaged, broken, or cracked outlets should be replaced immediately as it can cause electrocution and catch fire. This can be dangerous if you have pets and kids in your home. Make sure that you cover the safety switches with some plastic material or something which doesn’t catch fire.

4. Electrocution Protection

Your electrician must install some devices in your circuit panel which protects you from electric shocks and fire. Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) have saved many lives since their introduction. Nearly 50% of accidents due to electrocution have been prevented with GFCIs.

5. Appliances and Electronic Devices

Damaged plugs and worn parts of appliances (especially cords) are tremendously unsafe. Running power cords under rugs and damaged wiring can cause a fire. Ensure that you are using the right wattage bulbs in your home; check all the lamps, fixtures, and appliances for the correct wattage.

Use LED Lighting bulbs where possible, as they consume less power and reduce the risk of overheating. Always unplug devices when not in use, this is the easiest thing to forget in everyday lives, but one of the riskiest things too!

Conclusion:

While it’s important to understand the ins and outs of the electrical processes in your home, it’s always best to seek professional advice and leave the hard yards to your Electrician in Capalaba. We, at Thomas Blake Electrical, provide affordable electrical repairs and maintenance for residents and businesses in Brisbane. Contact us today!

An Electrical Safety Checklist: What to Do in an Emergency

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Electricity is the prime prerequisite for leading a comfortable life but it is also very important to have a hold of safety switches. There should be safety around all your electric fittings, electric materials, appliances, and wiring. You need to be aware of necessary electrical safety and also spread awareness about it.

Stitch in time saves nine and if you are well aware of the concerned electrical safety, you can protect many lives and commodities as well.

Electrical Emergencies

Mentioned below are a few instances of electrical emergencies and the best ways to respond in such situations:

1. Electrical Fire:

Electrical fire is one of the most common reasons for fire at any home. Such a risk mainly happens due to overloading, faulty or exposed wiring, or due to the proximity of flammable objects near LED lightings. If there is electrical fire around you, then you must follow the below-mentioned steps:

  • Cut the Power Supply: The first requirement is to switch off the power supply from the main source. This will stop the fire on time and there will be no risk of shock if the power supply is cut-off.
  • Use a Fire Extinguisher: Use a Class-C rated fire extinguisher to put out the fire. Continue using it till the fire is out or professional help has arrived. At times, throwing dry sand at the source of the fire can also be of help.
  • Vacate the Site: Vacate the site immediately and also help others follow the plan of evacuation. Each site has a proper exit plan in the event of a fire, so follow the plan.

2. Dangling or Fallen Power Lines:

Fallen or dangling power lines are a major threat to life. The following are some important steps to follow in such an event:

  • Keep Your Distance: The fallen power lines often have a current. Thus, you must stay away from it. Maintain a safe distance of at least 40 feet. If there are any metal fences, vehicles or puddles, then it could always pose for electrical hazards.
  • Don’t Touch Any Object in Its Contact: If there is a tree or object in contact with the fallen line, do not touch it.
  • Inform Local Authorities: Inform local authorities.

3. Electrical Shocks:

While putting off the switch, you could get electrical shocks. If there is poor wiring or overload, or cords are damaged, it can result in electric shocks. Brisbane Electrician can help you in the event of electrical shocks. If there is any such situation then you should handle it in the following manner:

  • Turn off the power supply: In the event of electrocution, this is the first step to be done. With the help of a wooden rod, try to cut the contact between the electrical source and the affected person.
  • Don’t touch the affected person: Avoid touching the affected person as the current from that person could affect you also.
  • Contact local Emergency Service: Call for local Emergency help immediately.

Final Thoughts:

If you notice any problems concerning electrical malfunctioning, make sure to call for professional help immediately. Also having safety switches electrician Carindale to monitor the current flow is essential and a prime prerequisite to avoid any mishap. Get all the electrical fittings, main supply, and wiring checked from time to time. Only hire an experienced electrician to work on any electrical requirement of your place.