Electrical Safety Tips for Spring 2024
In the tradition of spring cleaning, why not also take the time to clean up some of those bad habits that can lead to unnecessary electrical hazards. While National Electrical Safety Month isn’t technically until May, this is the perfect time to start discussing electrical safety tips for spring 2024. The first official day of spring 2024 is Tuesday, March 19th, so spring is just around the corner.
Our electricians have compiled a list of some of the best electrical safety tips for spring 2024. As you dive into your spring cleaning list, take some time to address some of the items below! With electrical hazards being the cause of more than 140,000 fires per year, it pays to take a little extra time practicing good electrical safety.
As always, be sure to give us a call at (919) 359-1017 to set up an appointment with Raleigh’s most trusted electricians today! You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to assisting you!
1. Take Note of Moisture Hazards
Although you’re likely aware of the dangers that come with mixing electricity and moist environments, it bares repeating: you should always be wary of potential moisture hazards around electrical components and power cords, especially in the spring. Whenever electricity is present, you need to be sure that you are working in an entirely dry environment.
2. Speak With Professionals Before Digging
As the temperatures become warmer, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself outside more often, especially when it comes to doing yard work. If any of your yard maintenance involves digging, however, think before you act. Underground power lines can be just as dangerous as overhead power lines. Considering the fact that you can’t see them, it’s nearly impossible to know where they’re located until you’re right on top of them! Before you dig a hole to plant a new tree this spring, for example, make sure that you consult a professional to make sure it’s safe to do so.
3. Be Wary of Power Lines
For those of you who don’t know, overhead power lines present an interesting type of danger. This is due to the fact that if you make contact with an overhead power line while your feet are planted firmly on the ground, for example, the electrical current will travel through your body before making its way into the ground below. What’s worse, this same thing can happen simply by standing underneath low-hanging power lines.
Before you get too involved in yard work near overhead power lines, be cautious and aware of the dangers involved. As a good rule of thumb, you should make sure that all tools, materials, and body parts are kept at least 15 feet away from power lines at all times.
4. Inspect Power Tools Before Use
It’s likely that there are a number of power tools that you haven’t used regularly since the last time temperatures were warmer outside. As you get ready to break out all of those tools again this year, be sure to inspect each of them regularly before use. Broken plugs and frayed wiring can cause your equipment to be extremely dangerous to use. Additionally, you should always make sure to unplug these tools when they aren’t in use and store them in dry locations (especially during the notoriously rainy months).
5. Be Cautious When Doing Yard Work
As we mentioned previously, electricity and water are an extremely dangerous combination. With that being said, it’s crucial to always practice caution when doing yard work. When mowing the lawn, for example, make sure to only use an electric mower on dry grass. If you need to use an extension cord for any of your yard work, be sure to use an insulated cord designed specifically for outdoor use. You can never be too careful!
6. Utilize GFCIs for Your Appliances
Finally, it’s a smart idea to use GFCIs for the event that your electrical appliances do come into contact with water or malfunction. GFCIs are designed to cut off power immediately when certain electrical hazards are detected, and this goes a long way in preventing the risk of electrical shock. To learn more about the benefits of GFCIs, check out our blog “GFCI Outlets and How They Keep You Safe.”
Contact Our Licensed Raleigh Electricians Today & Have a Safe Spring 2024!
Now that you know some of the most important electrical safety tips for spring, we hope you’ll call on our licensed electricians for any and all of your electrical needs! We’re on standby to assist you with any electrical repair or electrical installation- no job is too big or small! We look forward to working with you and wish you a happy and safe spring season.
Renee Rose
Renee is a freelance copywriter and blogger known for her expertise surrounding topics like marketing, freelancing, mental health, and more. She has written for hundreds of small business websites and is the Marketing Director here at Right Electrical Services, LLC. Renee believes that when a business prioritizes entertaining, engaging, and informational content for their readers, they can expect a loyal following that trusts their company.