It’s important that we are careful with electricity all the time, but there are plenty of electrical dangers to avoid during the winter. With the tendency to have more devices in use during the winter, it poses more of a problem.
During the colder months, there is a record number of fires reported, many down to unsafe electrical practices. To avoid a house fire this winter, there are some precautions you need to be aware of.
Electrical Dangers to Avoid During the Winter
Many people rely on other sources for heating and lights when the weather gets cold. It’s important to understand their dangers.
Space Heaters
Space heaters are a great way to keep warm without having to crack up the main thermostat. But carelessness with space heaters is an electric danger to avoid during the winter.
Never leave a space heater unattended. Be extra cautious when using a space heater around children and pets. Shut your portable heater off when going to bed, even if it is right beside you.
Be very careful that flammable items are not touching the heater. Keep blankets, Christmas trees, plants, paper, and everything else at least three feet away. Never drape a blanket or clothing over it for drying purposes or to garner more heat.
Overloading Outlets
Plugging too many appliances and devices into the same outlet is an electrical danger to avoid during the winter. Outlet extenders, extension cords, power bars, all of these are not meant to be a permanent solution.
Extension cords are a hazard anyhow if they are draped across doorways, on the floor, or extended to another room. Never use more than one extension cord at a time.
If you don’t have enough outlets, get more installed. We tend to need more in the winter, with space heaters, Christmas lights, electric blankets, and even using more kitchen appliances.
Be Mindful of Moisture
A very serious electrical danger to avoid during the winter is outlets and water. Using a portable heater in your kitchen or bathroom should be done so with great care.
This goes for your lights on the outside of the house, as well. Lights that are close to the house can melt snow and ice and cause them to short out. This can be a fire hazard.
Check All Cords
Before you plug anything in, check all your cords. Extension cords, any electric decorations, and your space heater. When these items are put into storage, the cords can get bent, broken, and even chewed by rodents.
Look for frayed areas, broken coating and exposed wires, loose connections, and any type of damage. It’s better to get a new cord than to risk plugging it in. This is a major electrical danger to avoid this winter.
Electrical Dangers to Avoid During the Winter
Before the winter hits, it’s advisable to get your electrical system inspected. That way, they can find any problems or potential problems. While the team is there, ask about upgrading your electric system, adding a few more outlets, and helping you and your family stay safe all winter long.
Here at Fusion Electric, we can help you with inspections, upgrades, and repairs you may need. Don’t take unnecessary risks this winter when you don’t have to. Electric safety is vital during the winter months, and all year long.
