Winter Electrical Safety

Here in Arizona, we are so grateful for winter and the chance to cool off for a few months. But, then it gets a little too cold, and we need a couple of warming gadgets to help us out, as well as lighting for the darker days! These appliances come with a price, so we’re going to offer some tips on winter electrical safety and ways you can protect your family from winter hazards.

Lights and brights

Lights are a necessity in these shorter days, but the accompanying hazards are not. Watch the wattage capacity of light fixtures, and if you aren’t sure, use a 25-watt bulb, or better yet, and LED light, which has far lower wattage requirements.

Holiday lights should also be used with care, including not putting too many on one outlet and taking care of extension cords.

Space heaters

Aren’t space heaters the greatest? They offer warm comfort to the area directly around us, saving the HVAC from heating the whole house. But they are a little tricky safety-wise. First, it’s essential always to respect the ’three-foot’ rule. Look around and see if there is anything within three feet that could burn if it gets knocked over or if it gets turned up to ‘high.’ This includes paper, clothing, and fabrics such as drapes and tablecloths. Check the wiring to be sure it hasn’t aged. Old, brittle, or damaged cords are a danger.

Electric blankets

There is a ten-year rule for electric blankets: after ten years, toss it. Don’t donate it, offer it to the needy, or anything else. No one needs to have their bed catch on fire. Also, use it to warm the bed before you sleep. Don’t sleep with the electric blanket on, because it can boil you slowly like a frog. Store them carefully when not in use.

Watch those children!

Adults automatically use caution when keeping appliances away from water, practicing care with cooking appliances, etc. There are several toasters, heaters, and other electrical appliances that are perfectly safe when appropriately used by adults. But, children always need to be taught the dangers of electrical appliances. At the same time, they should be discouraged from using these appliances without adult supervision until they are of an age to handle the responsibility of using them. There is no magic age, as each child and situation will be different. We defer to your judgment on your circumstances and your children’s skill levels to make the call.

We hope this has offered you some helpful tips and reminders. If you have concerns about the safety of your electrical system, want an upgrade, or are having and electrical problems, feel free to call us! We can help you keep your family safe from electrical dangers.

If you need a fast, affordable electrician for your home or business, call RSB Electrical at 480-485-4284.