Electrical Power Safety Tips and Reporting Dangerous Conditions
We all enjoy the convenience and productivity which electrical service brings to our homes, schools and businesses. Having harnessed the strength of electricity, we sometimes tend to be complacent about its magnificent power. If not respected, however, electricity can become a killer.
Use Your Space Heater Safely
Many people turn to space heaters-both electric models and those powered by kerosene or even wood-as a convenient source of warmth in winter months. However, space heaters can be dangerous if not used properly.
Fires cost more than just money
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates that more than 25,000 residential fires every year are associated with space heaters. More than 300 people die in these fires. In addition, an estimated 6,000 people annually receive hospital emergency care for burn injuries connected with space heaters.
Space heater hazards stem not just from fires caused by contact with or close proximity to heating elements. They also include fires started by flammable fuels used in the heaters, defective wiring in the appliance, and carbon monoxide poisoning caused by improper venting or an incomplete combustion of fuels.
Here are some tips for using your electric space heater safely:
- Keep the heater at least three feet from flammable items such as curtains, furniture, or bedspreads.
- Select a space heater with a guard around the heating element.
- When buying a heater, choose one that has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing institution such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
- Buy a heater that can handle the area you want to heat.
- Never use or store flammable liquids near a space heater.
- Read and follow the manufacturer's operating instructions.
- Keep heaters away from water to prevent electrocution.
- Be sure the heater's plug fits snugly in an outlet. The cord and plug may feel warm when operating, since the unit draws so much power, but they should not feel hot. If they do, unplug the heater and have a qualified repair person check for problems.
- Do not use a heater in a bathroom - it's a high-moisture area that could cause damage to the heater.
- Do not use an extension cord with a space heater.
- Do not attempt to repair a broken heater yourself. It should be checked and repaired by a qualified appliance service center.
Reporting Dangerous Conditions
It's Wyrulec's job to maintain the power system to provide safe, reliable service. You can help by reporting power line conditions that need attention, such as:
- Broken or leaning poles.
- Broken or sagging lines.
- Trees growing into lines.
- Broken insulators
- Sparks coming from electrical wires or equipment
- Excavation activity in areas where buried lines are likely to exist
- Construction activity under power lines
