Keep Electrical Cords from Becoming a Fire Hazard

4/15/2022 (Permalink)

Keeping your electrical cords and wiring in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent a fire hazard.

When something goes wrong with electrical wiring in your home or office, it can create a big mess. That’s because electricity travels through thin metal wires that are enclosed in plastic conduits or ceilings. If exposed, the wires can become a fire hazard. When that happens, you need to immediately contact a 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration company. Make sure to contact fire damage restoration companies near me as soon as possible as this is not something you should deal with on your own. 

With a few electrical safety tips, you can save yourself time, money, and worry. Here’s how to keep electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard.

Limit the Amount of Electrical Waste

One of the easiest ways to keep electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard is to reduce the amount of electrical waste in your home or office. This means no more twiddling with the power button on your electronics when you’re finished using them. Instead, try using a power strip or outlet that has a circuit breaker built-in. This will cut your devices off from the power source when you turn off the switch. This is especially helpful if you have a lot of electronics that are outdated or not being used.

Remove or Cover Worn Out Wires

When you have multiple electrical wires in one area, they’re susceptible to damage and moisture. A worn-out wire will often become damaged and the moisture can lead to a fire hazard. A good way to keep your electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard is to remove or cover worn-out wires. This can be as simple as unscrewing a light socket and removing the socket and its cover. This also helps avoid tripping over wires.

Use GFCI Outlets

Outlets are one of the most common causes of fires in homes and offices. That’s because they’re easy to trip over, especially when you’re wearing shoes or when someone else is using the same outlet. When unplugging devices, make sure to turn off the GFCI circuit breaker. 

Secure Old Wires with Cables

If you have an old wiring job in your home or office, it’s best to secure the exposed wires with cables. This will help prevent damage and moisture intrusion. Start by running the cables inside walls or into a conduit. Then secure the cables with staples or screws. 

Don’t Over Tighten Wires

This is one of the most important tips when it comes to keeping your electrical cords from becoming a fire hazard. Over tightening, wires can cause damage to the cord and the electrical connection. This will reduce the wire’s ability to conduct electricity. Instead of using a cord that is too short, buy a longer cord and use it properly. 

Conclusion

Keeping your electrical cords and wiring in good condition is one of the best ways to prevent a fire hazard. If your home or office has caught fire, you should look for fire damage restoration companies near me. A 24 hour fire damage repair and restoration can immediately restore your property and secure your electrical cords in the future.