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Safety Measures Homeowners Should Take During Warm Months
It's that time of year again when the days are getting longer, and the temperatures are getting hotter. For homeowners, this means that it's essential to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of their homes and maintain their electrical systems.
In this blog, we'll look at some of the basic safety measures homeowners should take during warm months to keep their home safe from electrical issues and maintain their electrical systems.
Check All Existing Wiring
First and foremost, you must regularly check all the existing wiring in your home. Doing a visual inspection of your wiring will ensure that there are no shorts or other problems in the wiring which could potentially lead to a fire. You should also check for any frayed or exposed wiring. Not only will this help protect your home from potential danger, but it could also save you from costly repairs.
Install Surge Protectors
In addition, it's an excellent idea for homeowners to install surge protectors throughout their homes wherever possible. Surge protectors act as an extra layer of protection for electronic devices in case of an unexpected power surge. They can help prevent severe damage and will pay for themselves over time if used regularly.
Protect Outdoor Outlets
Outdoor outlets are exposed to extreme weather conditions throughout the year and should be checked regularly for signs of damage or wear and tear. Make sure all outdoor outlets have covers or are protected with waterproof sealants.
Covering your outlets will help prevent moisture from seeping into the outlet and causing an electrical shock or fire hazard. Additionally, ensure that all outdoor cords are rated for outdoor use, as water exposure can damage regular cords.
Protect Against Lightning Strikes
Homeowners should also be aware of lightning strikes during thunderstorms as these can cause significant damage to their electrical systems and start fires that can spread quickly through a house. One way around this issue for those living in areas at high risk for lightning strikes is having lightning rods installed into the roof which help divert lightning away from structures and minimize the potential damage caused by lightning strikes.
Check Your Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers regulate electricity flow within a given circuit and prevent overloads from occurring, which can cause fires or other severe damage. Since circuit breakers can become worn over time, you should check them periodically to ensure they work correctly. If you notice any indication of failure, such as burnt plastic around the breaker box, contact an electrician immediately to avoid a potential disaster due to overheating circuits or overloaded lines.
Unplug Unused Appliances and Devices
It's important to remember that even when appliances and devices aren't being used, they're still drawing power if they're plugged in—which can lead to an unsafe accumulation of electricity in your home. To avoid this problem, unplug unused appliances and devices whenever possible so they don't draw unnecessary power throughout the day. Unplugging your unused devices can also help reduce energy costs as well.
Keep Pets Away from Cords and Outlets
Electrical safety is just as important for our beloved pets as it is for us. To help keep electrical appliances and circuits safe, ensure your pet does not chew on electrical cords or outlets. Any electrical cords should remain out of reach to prevent electrical shock. Consider installing protective covers over outlets your pet can't easily access, such as high up on a wall.
Remember to regularly inspect electrical cords to remove frayed or faulty wires before they become a hazard for you and your pet. With these electrical safety tips in mind, you can help ensure the peace of mind and well-being of both you and your furry (or feathery) companion.
Contact the Pros at Meyers Companies, Inc.
The arrival of spring means more time outdoors, but electrical safety should always remain top of mind. Knowing electrical safety can play a role in being protected from electrical fires and other issues. When electrical problems arise, our electricians at Meyers Companies, Inc. can best assess and address any electrical needs. Reach us at (219) 240-0610 to schedule an appointment!