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Fire Electrical Safety
Ticking Time bomb!
An electrical fire can happen at any time! Each year in East Gwillimbury, a significant proportion of fire emergencies stem from electrical faults.
Electrical Do's & Don'ts
NEVER:
- Replace a fuse with one that has a rating higher than required.
- Use appliances or lamps with cracked or frayed cords.
- Run extension cords under carpets or mats. Do not crimp the cord.
- Overload an outlet. Prevent the dreaded "Octopus Outlet". Be aware that heat generating appliances draw more power than others.
- Put heat generating appliances closer than 1 metre to anything that can burn.
- Use light bulbs that exceed a lamp's maximum wattage.
- Clip off the round grounding prong from an electrical plug.
- Use an electrical device or appliance after liquid has been spilled on it, before having it checked thoroughly.
ALWAYS:
- Follow-up when a fuse or circuit breaker blows. Don't just reset the breaker or replace the fuse. Find out what caused the problem.
- Purchase appliances that are approved by the Canadian Standards Association. Appliances without CSA approval could be unsafe.
- Put lamps on level surfaces, away from curtains or other flammable items.
- Allow adequate ventilation around electronic components that generate heat, such as TV's and audio equipment.
- Unplug small appliances like toasters and coffeemakers when you're not using them.
- Use only weatherproof lights and other electrical fixtures outdoors.
Warning Signs
- Recurring blown fuses or circuit breakers point to a fault in your home's electrical system.
- A burning smell or rubbery odour from an appliance.
- Discolouration of wall outlets.
