You’re likely using more electricity during the winter due to less daylight, colder temperatures, and holiday displays. Use these electrical safety tips to avoid fires, power outages, and other dangers.
Avoid Overloading Outlets
Christmas lights, space heaters, lamps, and more often require outlet space to function. And if you’re anything like us, you likely have only couple of outlets that are in the right spot to plug in the things that need to be plugged in.
Avoid the temptation to overload outlets with too many power strips or extension cords. There’s a good reason why standard outlets only come with two to four spots for plugs: that’s usually as much electrical load as they can safely handle.
It’s OK to use power strips if you’re smart about it. For example, use power strips that will automatically turn off if they become overloaded. This can prevent bigger power surges, which can be dangerous in cold weather, along with electrical fires.
Never Use Water to Put Out an Electrical Fire
If you ever experience an electrical fire, do NOT use water to put it out. Using water to put out an electrical fire can easily kill you, spread the fire farther, and in the best-case scenario destroy your electrical system and any electronics in the vicinity.
Instead, use any of the following to quell an electrical fire:
- Class C fire extinguisher
- Fire blanket
- Baking soda
It’s a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on every level of your home. If you don’t have one on every level, consider doing so. In a pinch, baking soda can dampen an electrical fire.
If you’re unsure about whether you can put the fire out yourself, don’t try. Evacuate your home and call 911.
Space Heaters: Placement and Plugging
If you use space heaters in your home, make sure to follow two important rules:
- Keep them away from high-traffic areas to reduce tripping and tipping.
- Plug them directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord.
Space heaters are common causes of fires in the winter for several reasons. They can cause things like curtains or furniture to ignite when placed too close to them. If they tip over, they can start carpet fires. And if they’re plugged into a power strip or extension cord, they may cause the strip or cord to overheat.
Most new space heaters come with sensors that will automatically disable the space heater if it tips over. Try to purchase one of these if at all possible.
Finally, never run a space heater if you plan to leave the house, and set a timer for it to turn off if you plan to run it at night.
Extension Cords: Use the Right Ones Sparingly
If you plan to use extension cords for outdoor holiday displays, make sure that you’re using extension cords that are appropriate for outdoor use.
Outdoor extension cords include extra insulation that protects them from harsh weather and helps reduce overheating. Indoor cords do not include this insulation, which makes them more likely to crack, break, and start fires.
Outdoor extension cords also have a thicker sheathing to protect the internal wiring, which can reduce the risk of sparks and fires.
Finally, extension cords are a temporary way to supply electricity. They are not meant to be a long-term or permanent solution for electrical needs.
Know Where Your Circuit Breaker Box Is
In an emergency, turning off electrical currents at your circuit breaker can help you reduce damage. Take time to locate your circuit breaker, and mark which circuits control which outlets throughout your house.
Solve Electrical Issues With Help From 2-10
Using these safety tips can go a long way in protecting your home and budget against unexpected fires this winter. And if you experience an electrical system breakdown from routine use, a Home Warranty Service Plan from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10) could help reduce the costs to solve electrical issues.
