How To Avoid Electric Shocks At Home
Electrical safety at home is something that every member of the family needs to be aware of in order to reduce the risks of fires and electric shocks.
The good news is that this doesn’t have to be overly complicated and it’s all about being as mindful as you can with appliances and sockets, as well as having a little bit of knowledge about how electricity works.
One rule of thumb to always bear in mind, for example, is that water and electricity are not excellent bedfellows and it’s essential that you store and use any electric gadgets away from water sources.
The kitchen represents the biggest health hazard in this regard, as you’ll likely have appliances like toasters, microwaves and kettles on countertops, in relatively easy reach of the kitchen sink.
Here, always make sure that your appliances are kept well away from any moisture and you should be protected against the risk of electric shocks. Also make sure that your hands are dry before turning appliances on or off at the wall.
It’s also advisable to ensure that grouting along the edges of your countertops is in good working condition, as water from the taps can seep through any gaps that emerge over time, eventually dripping down the wall and potentially leaking onto sockets for the dishwasher, washing machine and tumble dryer.
Those of you with an interest in DIY, meanwhile, would be advised to know your limits and only carry out electrical work if you know you have the skills and expertise to do so safely and securely. For any big electrical problems, always call out a professional electrician to lend a helping hand.
If you are tempted to try and resolve issues yourself, always make sure that you turn the electricity off before starting work. This acts as a safeguard if you do make any mistakes.
Being vigilant is also an excellent way to prevent electric shocks. Never overload sockets and extension leads, never touch bare wires that may be operational and always replace worn or damaged equipment as soon as you can. Look out for frayed or damaged cors, sparks, smoke damage or yellowing around the sockets.
If someone at home does sustain an electric shock, first assess the situation and check for danger. Do not touch them if they’re still in contact with the electrical source, as this could put you at risk as well. Turn off the source of electricity, or move them away from the source if you’re able to safely. Check for any injuries and call 999 for further assistance.
The seriousness of an electric shock is determined by different factors, including voltage, how long you’re in contact with the source, your general health and wellbeing, the path electricity takes through your body and the type of current you’re dealing with.
It may not be necessary to have emergency treatment after an electric shock, but it’s advisable to go and see a doctor as soon as you can, as internal damage can be hard to detect if you don’t have a professional medical exam carried out.