We at TriStar Electric want you to stay safe this winter.
Now that the weather is cold, a lot of homeowners depend on electrical devices to keep their homes both warm and cozy. Unfortunately, many portable heating units pose serious fire hazards if safety standards aren’t adhered to. In fact, a lot of home fires involve space heaters. We at TriStar Electric want you to stay safe this winter. Read on to learn more about possible electrical safety tips to follow this winter!
Keep Flammable Items Far Away from Heat Sources
Look to remove flammable items from around a heat source. Establish a three-foot perimeter around a heat source like a space heater, fireplace, wooden stove, or other heating device. A three-foot perimeter surrounding the heat source could also prevent injuries to pets and children in the house.
Never Leave Your Heaters Unattended
Turn off your portable heating units whenever you leave a room. Always turn off your heating unit once you leave home and when you go to sleep. Monitor these heaters to ensure that they do not overheat.
Monitor the Usage of Electrical Outlets
Don’t overload electrical outlets. At maximum, only one high-wattage appliance should be used for each outlet. Many homeowners are prone to adding more burdens to their home’s electrical needs with increased lights around the holidays. Just remember to monitor the use of your home’s electrical outlets. Consider setting reminders and timers to keep track of how long they have been plugged in.
Don’t Plug Space Heaters Into Power Strips or Extension Cords
The safest way to power up your space heater is to use wall outlets without other items plugged into them. Power strips and extension cords aren’t equipped to handle the high electrical current that most space heaters require. Using your power strip or extension cord to power your space heater could cause it to burn, melt, or catch fire.
Keep Replacement Outlets and Other Power Strips Safe
Don’t run electrical cords or power strips under your rugs or behind furniture. Covering cords and power strips inappropriately could increase the likelihood of fraying wires or sparks turning into a dangerous fire. Keep your outlets safe, and cover outlets with safety covers even if you have small children in your house.
For ALL of Your Residential or Commercial Electrical Needs, Call TriStar Electric!
No matter the job, big or small, the professionals at TriStar Electric will be happy to discuss your project and answer any questions or concerns you may have. We offer free in-home consultations, plus an after-hours and emergency phone line for advice or service!
If you have any questions about our electrical repairs or upgrades, please contact TriStar Electric, Maryland’s’ premier residential and commercial electrician, by calling 410-799-5791 or 301-384-8880. Or, you can fill out the contact form on our website.
Are you looking for a quality electrician in Maryland, Washington DC, Southern Pennsylvania, or Northern Virginia? Take a look at TriStar Electric’s online reviews and ratings on Angie’s’ List, Yelp, Google, Facebook, Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, and Better Business Bureau.