According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) electrical problems in homes cause nearly 55,000 fires annually. They account for more than 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries and more than $1.4 billion in property damage. Most electrical fires are caused by fixed wiring (permanent wiring usually put in place during initial construction) – bad electrical sockets or old wiring, so older homes are at greater risk.
Electrical cords are another source of home electrical fires. Overloaded outlets, frayed wiring or extension cords running under carpet, furniture or in high-traffic areas can cause serious problems. Extension cords should never be used as a permanent solution. If you need another electrical outlet you should call a licensed electrician to install one.
At this time of year winter storms with accompanying power outages are common in many areas. In the event your power goes out, the ESFI encourages consumers to turn off all electrical appliances, so that circuits are not overloaded when the power is restored. You should leave one light on to alert you when the power returns. A power surge can potentially cause a fire.
If you leave your home because of a power outage during a storm, the ESFI suggests you wait to return in the daylight and if upon returning you smell gas in the house, never turn on lights or light matches or candles. Do not return home until you are sure it is safe.
If you do live in an older home and have children you should install tamper resistant outlets. These look like regular electrical outlets, but they have a shutter system that stops young children from putting miscellaneous items into the outlet. More than 2,400 children are burned each year by electrical outlets.
*Content expressed in Home Security Source does not represent the thoughts and opinions of ADT Security Services, Inc. unless explicitly indicated.