Electrical safety starts at home: Follow these tips
May is National Electrical Safety Month, a great time to learn how to stay safe around electricity at home. Electricity helps power our lights, appliances, phones, and more — but if it’s not used the right way, it can be dangerous.
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, electrical home structure fires cause the following every year:
- 51,000 fires
- 1,400 injuries
- 500 deaths
- $1.3 billion in property damage
The good news? Many electrical accidents can be prevented with a few easy safety steps. Here’s a room-by-room guide to help you and your family stay safe at home.
CLICK THIS LINK FOR A DOWNLOADABLE AT-HOME SAFETY CHECKLIST: PPL Electric Utilities At Home Electrical Safety Checklist
Download this room-by-room checklist to help keep you and your home safe!
Living Room Safety
Living rooms often have lamps, TVs, game systems and phone chargers — all using electricity.
Safety tips:
- Check cords on lamps and electronics. Don’t use them if they are cracked or frayed.
- Make sure outlets and switches have faceplates and work properly.
- Never run cords under rugs or furniture, as they can overheat.
- Keep space heaters far away from curtains, furniture and other items that can catch fire.
- Don’t plug too many things into one outlet or power strip.
- If children live in or visit your home, use outlet safety covers.
Kitchen Safety
Water and electricity don’t mix, so kitchens need extra care.
Safety tips:
- Keep appliances like toasters and mixers away from the sink.
- Unplug small appliances when you’re not using them.
- Make sure refrigerator coils are clean and there’s space behind the fridge for airflow.
- Kitchens should have GFCI outlets (outlets with “test” and “reset” buttons). Test them once a month.
- Keep a Type C fire extinguisher nearby in case of an electrical fire.
Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms also have water, which makes electrical safety very important.
Safety tips:
- Keep hair dryers, razors and other electric items away from sinks, tubs and toilets.
- Unplug appliances when you’re done using them.
- Install and test GFCI outlets monthly.
- Use safety covers on unused outlets, especially if kids are around.
Bedroom Safety
Bedrooms may seem low-risk, but chargers and cords can still cause problems.
Safety tips:
- Don’t run cords under beds, rugs, or furniture.
- Unplug phone chargers and other electronics when not in use.
- Check cords regularly for damage.
- Make sure outlets and switches are covered.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors outside sleeping areas and on every floor of your home.
Basement Safety
Basements often hold big appliances and electrical panels.
Safety tips:
- Know where your main electrical shutoff is located.
- Label your circuit breaker box clearly so you know which breaker controls each area.
- Make sure breakers have the correct amperage.
- Clean dryer lint after every use and leave space behind washers and dryers for airflow.
- Use GFCI outlets near washers, sump pumps, and utility sinks.
- Keep space heaters away from boxes and stored items.
Garage Safety
Garages often use power tools, heavy equipment and additional appliances.
Safety tips:
- Check cords and plugs on all tools.
- Unplug tools when they’re not in use.
- Use tools with three-prong plugs when possible.
- Avoid overloading outlets, especially when using power tools.
- Make sure your garage has the correct breaker size for its electrical needs.
- Keep boxes and storage items away from outlets and wiring.
Outdoor Electrical Safety
While it’s important to make sure the inside of your home is safe, at home safety also means being careful outdoors.
Safety tips:
- Use outdoor-rated outlets with waterproof covers.
- Never use indoor extension cords outside. Look for cords marked “SJTW.”
- Only use generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your home, and never near doors or windows.
- Never open or touch your electric meter—only trained professionals should do that.
- Before digging for any project, call 811 at least three business days ahead to avoid hitting underground lines.
A Safe Home Starts With You
Electrical safety doesn’t have to be hard. By checking cords, using the right outlets and keeping electricity away from water and flammable items, you can help protect your home and your family.
This National Electrical Safety Month, take a few minutes to walk through your home and spot potential hazards. Small steps today can help prevent big problems tomorrow.