Electrical Safety
When a house is under construction, city inspectors
visit to make sure the electrical system is in compliance with
the City Building Code and the National Electrical Code. Only
licensed electricians are permitted to install electrical systems.
During home remodeling, when electrical circuits are added or
changed, make sure to use a licensed electrician whose work complies
with the electrical code. Add enough outlets in every room to
avoid using multiple plugs or extension cords. Use a ground fault
interrupter (G.F.I.) on circuits in the bathroom, or outdoors
where water or moisture is present.
When choosing an electrical appliance, be sure
it is approved by a safety-testing laboratory. This insures that
it has been constructed in accordance with nationally-accepted
electrical standards and has been evaluated for safety. Use the
appliance only according to manufacturer's specific instructions.
When using an extension cord, be sure it is designed
to carry the intended load. Most cannot carry as much current
as permanent wiring and tend to overheat. Do not use an extension
cord in place of permanent wiring, especially if a tripping hazard
exists or where there is high physical abuse, such as under a
carpet. Keep electrical cords away from infants and toddlers and
use tamperproof inserts on wall outlets to prevent them from sticking
objects into the outlets. The cord must be protected from damage.
Do not run it around objects or hang on a nail. Inspect it periodically
for worn insulation and overall condition.
Electrical Emergencies
Winds
accompanying thunderstorms may knock down power lines or utility
poles. Keep people away from the area, and CALL
THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
If power lines come in contact with a vehicle,
do not touch it or the vehicle. If people are inside, tell them
to stay inside. If they try to exit, they may complete a grounded
electrical circuit and be instantly killed. They must stay inside
until the power is shut by the utility company.
If a serious electrical malfunction occurs in
your home, school or workplace, it is the same as a fire. Notify
others, activate the fire alarm and exit promptly. If you are
familiar with the operation of a fire extinguisher, you can use
only a "Class C" Fire
Extinguisher on an electrical fire.