Electrical Shock and Fire Hazard Safety Tips
All Ontario residents need to consider electrical safety. The 1st step is awareness - awareness that electricity must be used safely. The 2nd step is reducing and eliminating risk by recognizing that simple precautions will keep you electrically safe.
Electrical shock and fire hazards are often caused by poor or improperly installed wiring and electrical systems.
This includes:
- improperly installed lighting
- faulty or temporary wiring
- poorly-made connections
- improper use of appliances and extension cords
If you are concerned about electrical applications in your home or are considering a renovation or even a new home purchase, an Electrical Inspector can assist you in ensuring that electrical systems and applications meet the requirements of the Ontario Electrical Safety Code. This Code has been developed to keep residents and businesses in Ontario safe from electrical shock and fire hazards.
The Electrical Safety Authority encourages you to:
- regularly check your home for:
1. loose or damaged plugs
2. damaged and/or frayed electrical cords
3. fuses that blow or circuit breakers that trip frequently, or for circuits that won't work when fuses are replaced or breakers reset
4. dim or flickering lights
- recognize that extension cords are handy for temporary use but:
1. you should never remove the 3rd prong - this prong exists to prevent shocks!
2. should not be used in place of permanent wiring
3. should not be used if cords show signs of damage such as loose prongs, splits in the plastic casing (cord jacket), or heat excessively when in use
4. should be kept away from heat and water
5. should never be placed under carpets or under heavy furniture
- never overload electrical outlets by plugging in too many plugs
- install Ground Faults Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in your bathrooms and laundry rooms, and ensure GFCIs are used to supply appliances outdoors to minimize the risk of electrical shock!
- check that all electrical appliances are "approved" with recognized approval markings to ensure they meet the electrical safety requirements for Ontario (these markings can be found in "The Homeowner's Guide to Electrical Safety Authority Services")
