Your home's electrical wiring is one of its most convenient features, but when not maintained and used correctly, it can also be dangerous. An electrical shock can even put you in the hospital, so take a few simple precautions around the home.

A Guide to Electrical Shock Prevention at Home

1. Understand Your Breakers

Your home's circuit breakers are designed to shut down the flow of electricity automatically when the system is overloaded, but they can also be flipped manually to cut the current to various parts of your home. You can then prevent shocks by shutting off the power to areas where there may be a problem or you need to work near electrical wiring. Familiarize yourself with your breaker box and label the various switches to make it easier to find the one you need.

2. Manage Your Cords

Electric cords can be damaged or wear out over time, exposing wires and increasing your risk of a shock. Inspect all appliances for any exposed wires. Also, don't plug too many items into the same outlet, including plugging one power strip into another, as it increases the risk of overloading or shorting out your electrical wiring.

3. Be Careful Around Water

Your kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room are some of the riskiest areas in your home when it comes to shock hazards since they all use water and electricity. Keep devices and cords away from sinks and tubs, and don't use them when you're in the bath or doing anything else with water.

4. Watch for Signs of Faulty Wiring

If you have flickering light fixtures, notice a burning plastic smell, or hear or feel buzzing near your switches, outlets, or fixtures, faulty electrical wiring may be letting current flow through walls or fixtures. Touching these areas can cause an unexpected shock, even if there’s no visible wire exposed. Have the wiring repaired immediately; by the time you spot these signs, stray current may already be present.

5. Don't DIY

You may be able to tackle a wide range of projects around your home, but you should draw the line at electrical wiring. A licensed electrician should handle these repairs since they’re trained in both immediate and long-term safety standards to prevent electrical shocks and fire hazards.

 

If your electrical wiring has a problem, call Always On Electric for electrical inspections and repairs. Based in Hilo, HI, and serving the Big Island, they offer 24-hour emergency service and have earned an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau® for their customer service. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 640-3391 or send a message online.