Electricity Can be a Shocking Safety Risk at Home and at Work*

There are certain instances when you might be more vulnerable to electric shock, when electric safety becomes a priority. If you’re planning a home improvement project that involves wiring or appliances you might be putting yourself at risk of electric shock without even knowing it. Likewise, when you’re at work, chances are your mind’s not on the condition of the many electrical cords tangled beneath your desk—but with the many computers, scanners and other electronic office equipment come electric shock risks too.

Here’s what you can do to keep yourself safe during Electrical Safety Month while working at home installing that new light dimmer or working away at the office.

When attempting an electrical home improvement project:

- First things, first: Never attempt a project that is beyond your skill level. Knowing when to call a professional may help prevent electrical fires and serious injuries.
- Always turn off the power to the circuit that you plan to work on by switching off the circuit breaker at the main panel.
- After you turn off power, test any wires you plan to work on with a voltage meter before you touch them to make sure that the power has been turned off.
- Unplug all lamps or appliances before working.
- Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters GFCI’s with every power tool and on every outlet where water might be present (i.e.: bathroom outlets).
- Never stand on or near damp floors when working directly with or near electricity.

Make sure you’re safe from electricity at work:

- Surge protectors protect equipment, but they don’t provide protection from an overloaded circuit. Make sure electrical loads are not too great for the circuit.
- Avoid overloading outlets. Never plug in more than one high-wattage appliance at a time.
- Never place electrical cords in high traffic areas, under carpets or across doorways where they pose potential tripping hazards.
- All electrical products and equipment should be certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as UL, CSA, or ETL—check labeling on the equipment to verify that equipment is certified.

*Content expressed in Home Security Source does not represent the thoughts and opinions of ADT Security Services, Inc. unless explicitly indicated.