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Electricity is the force that powers your home through a series of steps to get to you. Generation is the first step. Power plants have generators with turbines within that use an outside source of power to spin, when they spin they create electricity. Transmission is the second step. Transmission lines are used to transport the electricity created in power plants to a substation. At the substation, the electricity's voltage is lowered in preparation for use in homes. Distribution is the third step. Once the electricity has been converted to a lower voltage at the substation, the electricity exits the substation through a power line and then passes through a wired service line into your home.
The use of this electricity brings so many benefits to the everyday life of a homeowner. With the benefits comes a responsibility to safely use this energy. There are multiple electrical hazards that can cause electrical shock or create fire. These instances can create lasting health effects, or even death. In the following information listed, you will find helpful resources and tips for adults in a home to establish and teach electrical safety.
Indoor electrical safety tips:
Wires
When unplugging a cord, do not yank on the cord but rather unplug it by the base of the plug
If a cord has exposed wires do not touch the cord or plug it in
Replace or repair any cords that are broken
Outlets
Do not allow children to plug or unplug a cord without supervision or permission
Repair outlets and plugs that are not properly functioning
Do not insert any fingers or objects into sockets or outlets
Be cautious to not plug too many appliances into one outlet
Household Appliances
Avoid using appliances if you are near water or wet
Flammable items should be kept away from appliances such as space heaters
While cleaning any appliances make sure to unplug them
Recommendations for adults in the home:
While educating children on electrical safety is important, it is essentially the adults responsibility to secure the safety measures needed. Here are a few tips to consider:
Regular electrical checks from a professional electrician can get ahead of any potential or minor issues and avoid them becoming major ones, as not all hazards are inherently obvious.
Childproofing outlets in order to prevent injuries through shock.
Keeping an eye out for water leakage in order to avoid the potential crossing of water and electricity.
Supervise and properly teach older children how to unplug cords from outlets.
Outdoor electrical safety tips:
With the consideration of the elements and other potential dangers such as utility poles, substations, and power lines, it is essential that outdoor electrical safety is a component of education for children in the home.
Utility poles and power lines
Do not climb utility poles.
Do not climb on trees with power lines running through them or near them.
Do not go near or touch any power lines that are down. Call 911 and tell an adult immediately.
If a friend or animal comes into contact with the downed power line, do not touch them. Call 911 immediately.
Electrical Substations
Do not climb or touch the fencing around a substation; do not enter a substation for any reason.
If a friend, pet, or personal item enters a substation, do not follow. Call 911 and tell an adult immediately.
Stay at least 3 yards away from substations at all times.
Water
If a pool light is flickering, stay out of the water.
Keep all electrical appliances away from sources of water.
Do not go swimming during a storm, especially if you have heard thunder or seen lightning.
Recommendations for outdoor electrical safety
Keeping in mind that educating children in the home is important, but there are more things to consider when securing the status of outdoor electrical safety. Here are a few reminders concerning the outdoors and electricity.
When switching out any outdoor light bulbs, make sure the appropriate circuits are off to avoid any possibility of electrical shock.
Have a professional update any outlets exposed to moisture with GFCI outlets to ensure the safety of your family.
If you have a pool make sure that all electrical wires are kept at least 10 feet away from the water or buried.
Be weather aware at all times and avoid metal and water sources if you absolutely must go outdoors during a storm.
Educational Support on Electrical Safety
How to ensure your home is safe when experiencing electrical issues:
Educational support on electrical safety
Just like adults, children have a better chance of keeping safe when they understand the concept and have foundational understanding on a topic. Below are some resources that can better equip you to teach your child more about electricity and electrical safety.
Websites on electricity:
(Circuit Construction kit) https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/circuit-construction-kit-dc
This website allows children to play with batteries and lightbulbs and look deeper into how they work.
Ducksters educates children about electricity through a series of different quizzes, puzzles, and foundational information.
(ScienceWiz) https://sciencewiz.com/portals/electricity/
ScienceWiz uses numerous games, activities, songs, and much more to educate children on electricity.
How to ensure your home is safe when experiencing electrical issues.
Education is a major and necessary component of a safe home regarding electricity. Though there are essential steps of responsibility that are needed from a homeowner to assure safety, there are also limitations in that area as well that must be acknowledged. Electricity is an extremely dangerous force to work with. In the event of needing an extra hand regarding any electrical needs, be sure to call Grider Electric!