Home Safety Tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFi)

Overview

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFi) has provided safety tips for the use of electricity in the home.

 

Recommendations for when to call an electrician:

(1) All electrical work should be done by a licensed electrician according to the building codes.

(2) Contact a licensed electrician if there are any warning signs of an electrical problem (see previous section).

(3) Have the electrical system inspected if your home is old or if it has been renovated or if there has been a major increase in the use of electricity.

(4) The excessive use of power strips and extension cords often indicates insufficient wiring.

 

Recommendations related to the electrical panel and circuits:

(1) Replace circuit breakers with arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) to prevent arcing.

(2) Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected outlets in locations where there may be water exposure (bathroom, kitchen, other).

(3) Periodically use the TEST button to make sure that outlets are working properly.

(4) Make sure that all circuits in the electrical panel are properly labeled.

(5) Always use the correct size and amperage when replacing a fuse or circuit breaker.

 

Homeowner responsibilities:

(1) Check outlets, switches, cords and appliances for signs of damage.

(2) Make sure that electrical cords are not pinched by doors, windows or furniture.

(3) Watch for warning signs of an electrical problem.

 

Do nots:

(1) Do not overload an outlet or power strip with too many appliances or devices.

(2) Do not use extension cords for a major appliance.

(3) Do not use extension cords on a permanent basis.

(4) Do not run electrical cords under carpets, rugs or papers.

(5) Do not use light bulbs that do not match the recommended wattage for a lamp or light fixture.