With shorter days and colder nights, it’s no surprise that most homes increase their electricity consumption when winter enters the scene. But, unfortunately, that spike in your electric bill also increases the chances of a fire or other Electrical Hazards.
Do you wonder how to keep yourself and your tenants safe this season? If so, stick around as we highlight the top safety tips to avoid electrical hazards during unstable weather conditions.
Safety Tips to Avoid Electrical Hazards During Unstable Weather Conditions
Adhere to Appliance Instructions
One of the best ways to stay safe during rough weather is to stick to appliance instructions. Many electric devices come with special instructions that help maintain the item and guarantee your safety. Adhering to these instructions can help you avoid electrical shocks and other accidents. Among these Rubber glove testing serves as a vital preventive measure, safeguarding workers from electrical hazards and promoting a safer work environment.
Avoid Overloading Your Outlets
Overloaded outlets are one of the most common causes of electrical problems. Therefore, you should always be conscious of how many devices you plug in at once. Also, remember that some items consume more power than others. Thus, to prevent an outage, you might want to unplug other things before you plug them in.
Replace Frayed or Damaged Cords Promptly
Damaged or frayed cords are another common reason for electrocution. These exposed wires pose a severe safety risk to residents, and you should address them as soon as possible. It would be best if you also made it a habit to inspect your extension cables for signs of fraying that might go unnoticed. You can hire an expert local property manager to guide you on safety requirements for your rental.
Keep Your Cords Tidy
Another great safety tip is to keep your cords tidy. Exposed cords can be a tripping hazard, especially if children or pets are in the house. Thus, keeping your cords out of walking paths would be best. You should also avoid wrapping them around objects and stretching them over long distances.
Unplug Appliances When Not in Use
The best way to prevent any electrical hazard is to unplug your devices and appliances from the wall when they’re not in use. After all, they don’t pose any danger to your when there’s no current flowing. This tip is beneficial when you’re not at home and unable to act in the event of an accident. You can even buy a smart plug that automatically turns off the power when your appliances are switched off.
Keep All Devices and Outlets Dry
It should be a no-brainer that water and electricity don’t mix. Still, it’s essential to reiterate that you should always keep your devices and sockets dry. Try to avoid storing liquids near your electrical appliances, and when you can escape them, ensure they’re in a sealed container.
Encourage Air Circulation
Maintaining proper air circulation is also an excellent way to prevent electrical hazards. Too much heat can make your appliances overheat and could lead to a fire. However, when there’s enough room for your devices to cool down, it protects the lifespan of your machine and keeps your home safe.
How to Make Your Home Winter Ready
Check Your Heating Systems
Winter is the perfect time to snuggle up and stay warm. But before you grab your blankets and crank up the heat, inspect all your heating systems. Most homes have an HVAC system, so you’ll want to call a professional to service it. Also, if you have a chimney, you should hire a professional cleaner to clear the paths.
Check the Drainage
It’s crucial to check your drains during unstable weather conditions. This tip is particularly vital for fire prevention during winter. Heavy and melting storms often mean more water piles in your outdoor gutters. If these paths aren’t clear, it could mean water pooling on your roof. Consequently, the liquid could seep into the house through the ceilings and walls and tamper with your electrical system.
Seal the Leaks
Finally, since your heating bill is bound to go up this winter, you should try and limit it where possible. One of the best ways to do this would be to make your heating system more efficient by sealing the leaks around your house. Search your doors, windows, and other entryways for pockets of air drafts. Then seal these up with caulk to prevent hot air from escaping and cold air from entering.
Conclusion
With all the snow, wind, and storms typical of colder months, it’s essential to minimize accidents where possible. These 10 safety tips to avoid electrical hazards during unstable weather conditions should be able to keep you and your tenants safer this season.
If you still need some help implementing these tips, or getting your home ready for winter, feel free to contact an expert. A professional property management company can help you recognize potential hazards, correct them, and keep your home electrically safe.
