Electrical safety Tips

The following information can be used to check areas of your home to improve the electrical safety. Not following these guidelines increases the possibility of;

• an electrical shock
• overheating or
• a fire.

At GRENLEC, we believe that nothing is more important than your safety.
Water and Electricity Do not Mix

• Don't leave electrical appliances plugged in areas where it may come in contact with water. If a plugged appliance falls into water, NEVER reach in to pull it out - even if it's turned off. First turn off the power source at the panelboard and then unplug the appliance. If you have an appliance that has gotten wet, don't use it until it has been checked by a qualified technician.

Cords

Make sure cords are out of traffic areas and that furniture is not resting on them. In addition, make sure cords are

• In good condition
• Not frayed or cracked and
• Never nailed or stapled to the wall baseboard or other objects.

Plugs

Be sure that your plugs;

• Fit securely
• Never be forced into an outlet
• Are the proper type
• Never cut off the ground pin (the third prong) from a plug.
• Use a two-prong adapter instead.

Outlets

Check outlets should not have·

• Loose-fitting plugs
• Broken wall plates
• Overloaded situations

NB Make sure there are safety covers on all unused outlets that are accessible to children.

Light bulbs

Bulbs should be checked frequently to ensure they are:

• Screwed in securely
• The correct wattage for the fixture. Bulbs of a higher wattage than recommended should be replaced.

Circuit breakers / fuses

• Circuit breakers and fuses should always be the correct size for the circuit.
• If you don't know the correct size fuse, have an electrician identify and label the sizes to be used.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)

• GFCIs can help prevent electrocution. They should be used in any area where water and electricity may come into contact. When a GFCI senses current leakage in an electrical circuit, it assumes a ground fault has occurred. It then interrupts power fast enough to help prevent serious injury from electrical shock. Test GFCIs regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions to make sure they are working properly.
• GFCIs (or GFIs) should be used in any area where water and electricity may come into contact.
• Test GFCIs regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.Water and electricity don't mix
• Don't place any electrical appliance near water, such as a sink or bathtub
• Appliances that are used near water should be unplugged when not in use.
• If you have an appliance that has gotten wet, unplug it and don't use it until it has been checked by a qualified repairperson.Entertainment / computer equipment
• Check to see that the equipment is in good condition and working properly. Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs, cords and connectors.