Indoor Safety
Make your home a safety zone
Don't overlook the obvious. Keep safety in mind with common household appliances you use every day.
- Don't overload circuits by inserting too many plugs into a single outlet
- Install safety covers on all unused outlets kids can reach, and replace any missing or broken wall plates
- Make sure all plugs fit securely into outlets; loose-fitting plugs can overheat and lead to fire
- Avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances
- Replace any cords or extension cords when they are frayed or cracked
- Place cords away from traffic areas, but not under carpeting or rugs
- Use extension cords on a temporary basis; they are not intended as permanent wiring
- Keep space heaters and halogen floor lamps at least three feet away from combustible materials
- Turn off space heaters and halogen lamps whenever you leave the room, and don't use them where children are unsupervised
- Turn pot handles toward the back of the range to prevent children from reaching and pulling down a hot pan
- Protect electrical outlets with Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs); hire an electrician to install these devices to protect electrical receptacles near water
- Never use the kitchen range/oven as a space heater
- Don’t touch a wet appliance, if it is plugged in; first, turn off the power source at the panel board (circuit breaker box) and then unplug the appliance