Safety First

January 2024

Electricity powers modern life, but it can still be dangerous if not handled carefully. Check back here each month for new tips on how to stay safe around electric power at your home or business.

If you haven’t taken all your Christmas decorations down, there’s a good chance there are still some extension cords scattered around your home. The Electrical Safety Foundation estimates that improperly used extension cords lead to roughly 3,300 home fires each year.

To make sure your home isn’t one of them:

• Never plug extension cords into each other.
• Make sure each cord is properly rated for its intended use.
• Inspect cords for damage like frayed plugs or bare wires.
• Keep outdoor extension cords clear of standing water.
• Don’t overload sockets or power strips with multiple cords.