ELECTRICAL TIPS
Electrical Generators
Take special care with portable electric generators, which can provide a good source of power, but if improperly installed or operated, can become deadly.
Do not connect portable generators directly to household wiring. Power from generators can backfeed along power lines and electrocute anyone coming in contact with them, including line workers making repairs. A qualified, licensed electrician should install your generator to ensure that it meets local electrical codes.
Kitchens & Bathrooms
One of the newest, and arguably best, requirements in the electrical installation code has to do with water. As you know, water and electricity don't mix too well, so it's in our best interest to keep them apart. To help make certain they don't mix, the 2005National Electrical Code (NEC)mandates all kitchen outlets be Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI). The NEC also requires all outlets within 6 feet of a tub or basin to be GFCI.
For good measure, Dzyuba recommends GFCI outlets in all kitchen and bathroom electrical installations.
Bandages
Extension cords generally come in "safety orange" for good reason. Manufacturers want to make sure you can see the cord because cutting an extension cord is unsafe and dangerous.
Never use an extension cord that has been cut or damaged. Touching even a single exposed strand of wire can give you an electric shock or burn. So, don't take any chances. Replace damaged cords right away.
Outlet Overloading
Never overload electrical outlets and circuits. Overloaded electrical outlets, or circuits that supply power to several outlets, is a major cause of residential fires. Overloaded outlets and circuits carry too much electricity, which generates heat in undetectable amounts. The heat causes wear on the internal wiring system and can ignite a fire.
All wiring systems have circuit breakers or fuses that disconnect power when circuits become overloaded. However, an improperly sized fuse or breaker can cancel this built-in safety feature.
To prevent overloading, never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once or "piggyback" extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs.