Indoor Safety

These easy steps will help you to identify and correct fire and other electrical dangers commonly found in homes.

Are there smoke alarms installed on every level of the home, inside each bedroom and outside each sleeping area? Are they working? Do the batteries need to be replaced?

Does the wattage of the bulb match the wattage indicated on the light fixture? Overheating can lead to a fire if the wattage of the bulb is greater than indicated on the fixture.

Are cords in good condition (not damaged or cracked)? Do not attempt to repair damaged cords yourself. Take any item with a damaged power cord to an authorized repair center. Are extension cords being used only on a temporary basis? Are your extension cords properly rated for their intended use, indoor or outdoor? Do they meet or exceed the power needs of the appliance or tool being used?

Are all outlets and switches cool to the touch? Unusually warm outlets or switches may indicate that an unsafe wiring condition exists. Do you hear crackling, sizzling, or buzzing from your outlets? Call a licensed electrician to identify the cause. Do you have small children? Consider installing tamper-resistant receptacles to prevent hairpins and other small objects from being inserted into the outlet.

Are heaters placed at least three feet away from things that can catch fire, such as curtains and bedding? Relocate heaters at least three feet away from all flammable materials. Are heaters placed on a flat, stable surface and placed where they will not be tipped over? Heaters should not be placed on top of furniture, or in high traffic areas. They may become a fire hazard if tipped over. Do you turn your space heaters off and unplug them when you leave the room or go to sleep? Space heaters should never be left unattended when they are in use.

Are all kitchen appliance cords placed away from hot surfaces? Pay particular attention to cords around toasters, ovens, and ranges. Cords can be damaged by excess heat. Are all kitchen appliances located away from the sink? Electrical appliances can cause a shock if they come into contact with water. Are all kitchen appliances plugged into GFCI-protected outlets? GFCI outlets can help protect you from deadly electric shocks.

Have you ever received even a slight shock (other than one from static electricity) from any of your large appliances? If so, do not use or touch the appliance until it has been checked by a licensed electrician. Are the top and the area above the cooking range free of combustibles like potholders and plastic utensils? Storing these things on or near the range may result in fires or burns.

Are the kitchen and bathroom outlets protected by GFCIs? GFCIs should be installed in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where water may come into contact with electricity. If you have GFCIs installed, do you test them regularly? GFCIs must be operating properly to protect against electrocution. Test GFCIs monthly to ensure they are in working condition.

Is your fuse box or circuit breaker box appropriately labeled? Proper labeling makes it easy to identify what circuits power each room in your home. Are you regularly resetting tripped circuit breakers? Circuit breakers that are constantly tripping indicate that the circuit is overloaded or that other electrical hazards exist. Consult a qualified, licensed electrician. Is your home protected by Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs)? Combination-type AFCIs replace traditional circuit breakers in the electrical service panel, providing the most advanced electrical fire protection available. Ask a qualified electrician if your home would benefit from AFCI protection. Test AFCIs monthly to make sure they are working properly.

Are small appliances, such as hair dryers and electric razors plugged in when not in use? Water and electricity do not mix! Unplug and store appliances safely when not in use. Are they in good condition? Pay particular attention to erratic operation and damaged wiring or other parts. If you have any GFCIs, do you test them regularly? GFCIs must be operating properly to protect against electrocution.