Electric Safety

Home and Business

Inside the home and business we often overlook many dangerous electrical hazards such as overloading a wall socket or using frayed electric cords.  In an effort to keep our citizens and businesses safe, the City of Gardner has compiled many tips for electrical safety. 

• When changing light bulbs, never exceed the wattage rating for the fixture. Check for a sticker on the base of the lamp socket.
• Turn off fixtures and light switches before replacing bulbs. If you aren't sure whether the lamp is on or off, unplug it first.
• Do not place electric cords under rugs or where they can be walked on or damage can go unnoticed.
• Check for cords that are broken, frayed, damaged or tied in knots, or that have melted insulation. Have them repaired or replaced promptly.
• Use extension cords with three-pronged plugs for appliances that require grounding.
• Insert and remove plugs by grasping the plug. Pulling on the cord could damage it. Be careful not to let fingers touch the metal prongs.
• Don't overload an outlet with too many lamps or appliances.
• Put safety covers over unused electric outlets. This is particularly important if you have children in your home. Never let children play around outlets.
• Don't hang clothes to dry on or near your heater, heating vent or hot plate.
• Avoid placing furniture and blankets close to heaters or hot plates.
• Use only appliances with the Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) symbol. This symbol shows that the product has been safety-tested
• Never use any electric appliances - radios (except small battery-powered ones), TVs, hair dryers - near sinks, toilets or bathtubs.
• Always dry your hands before touching electric appliances.
• Keep the floor around your washer and dryer clean and dry.

For more information on indoor home and business electric safety, please view the Indoor Electrical Safety Check Booklet that has been compiled by Electrical Safety Foundation International.

Kid's Safety

The Electrical Safety Foundation International has also compiled a kid's coloring and information book available in two versions; one for pre kindergarten and the other for kindergarten through third grade.  The Mr. Plug Fun Book: Coloring and Activities Book, uses coloring activities and quizzes to help teachers and parents help children learn about electrical safety. Mr. Plug can also provide an electrical safety refresher course for adults.

Additional Websites:

National Electrical Safety Code Zone

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health

U.S. Fire Administration: Electrical Fire Safety