This year, the American Burn Association is focusing on electrical safety for National Burn Awareness Week. From amp to zap, here are 26 tips to help you prevent burns.
Appliances: Major appliances should be plugged into a wall outlet directly. Do not use extension or power cords. Remember, only one heat-producing appliance should be plugged into a single outlet.
Batteries: Make sure that the positive and negative terminals of batteries do not come into contact with each other; this can cause them to short circuit. Do not carry batteries with coins, keys, or other metal objects, as this can lead to burns caused by short circuiting.
Cords: Always examine cords before using them to make sure they are in good condition with no crack, bare wires, or loose connections.
Drowning: Electric shock drowning can occur when electric current travels through the water, such as from damaged wiring in a marina.
Extension cords: Never use an indoor cord outdoors.
Frayed: Do not use electrical cords that are frayed or broken.
Generator: Do not plug a generator into a household outlet directly. It causes a back feed. If you plan to use a generator during emergencies, hire a qualified electrician to install a transfer switch.
HVAC: Have your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems inspected annually to check for any electrical issues.
Indicates: If you notice a flickering light, it often indicates that the fixture/circuit has come loose; try tightening the bulb.
Jumper cables: Follow all manufacturer guidelines to properly jump-start a car battery with jumper cables.
Keep: Prevent shock by keeping electrical devices and outlets away from water.
Lockout: Follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910.147 and shut down equipment. Isolate equipment from energy sources.
Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance to look for frayed cords, broken plugs, and damaged insulation.
National Electric Code: Make sure electrical work performed in your home meets or exceeds the National Electric Code standards.
Outside: If you’re caught outside in a storm, find shelter immediately.
Pull: Do not pull an item from an electrical outlet by the ocrd. Always pull from the base.
Qualified electrician: Find a qualified electrician when you need electrical work performed.
Rug: Don’t place plugged in extension cords underneath rugs.
Stay back: If you spot a down power line, stay back at least 20 feet and call 911.
Tripped circuit breakers: If your circuit breakers are frequently tripped, it’s a sign that the circuit isn’t able to handle the power demand. Move appliances to other circuits or consult an electrician.
Underground: Call 811 before digging. 811 will locate underground utilities to help prevent electrocution injuries and deaths.
Voltage: Don’t assume that a circuit is safe just because it is powered off. Use a meter to check for voltage before touching any electrical components or wiring.
Warm: Switches or outlets that are unusually warm may indicate unsafe wiring. If you notice this issue, stop using the switches and contact an electrician.
X-ray: If you are working with electricity near an x-ray machine, make sure there is sufficient grounding of the x-ray table, control panel, and tube stand.
Y-Adapter: This adapter splits power from a single outlet into two.
Zapped: Make sure that electrical equipment is properly grounded so you don’t get zapped by electricity.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
