Working with electricity and having power in your home comes with great responsibility, said the folks from Arrive Alive.
Plug-points and electricity are an essential part of our lives, but it’s vital that people of all ages know the risks accompanying their use.
It is important to inspect your electricity supply for breakages; deterioration in any plugs; signs of overheating; missing parts such as screws, covers, switches etc; faulty appliance controls, and loose fixtures or fittings. Test your equipment regularly by switching it on and off and be on the look out for possible problems or faulty connections. Always take time to make sure you are using your equipment safely.
When buying or using plugs always use SABS-approved plugs and never overload them. Rather use an adaptor. Danger can be reduced by not using frayed cords, and keeping cords well away from any hot surface. It is also crucial to ensure cords are not placed in areas where people might trip over them. Avoid running any cords across doorways or under carpets, and don’t nail the cords to any surface. Extension cords should be used on a temporary basis only.
If you have small children, it is important to make sure your home has tamper-resistant plug-points. When babies start crawling and walking, you should be extra vigilant regarding any electrical exposure.
Children love playing with loose hanging wires and it’s frighteningly easy for them to chew on live wires. Therefore it is important to teach children not to play with electrical sockets. All unused plug-points should be covered with safety plugs. Children should also be taught the dangers of flying a kite near power lines. Never allow children to climb electric poles or play with them near an electrical installation.
Arrive Alive has provided the following safety tips:
• Turn the switch off at the wall socket before pulling out the plug
• Do not connect electrical appliances to light sockets
• Ensure all wall sockets are off when not in use
• Never put bare wires into sockets
• Never stick your fingers into a socket
• Always turn the switch off when changing a light bulb
• Never use a metal object to remove toast from a toaster when it is plugged in. Also – clean your toaster regularly as a build-up of bread-crumbs can be dangerous.
• When you see sparks or smoke coming from an electrical appliance, something is wrong. It is advisable to unplug it immediately and call an electrician.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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