Electricity powers nearly every aspect of our daily lives, from lighting and appliances to entertainment and heating. But as essential as it is, electricity also poses serious safety risks if not properly managed. 

Overloaded Power Boards and Circuits

The Risk:

Plugging too many appliances into one power board or outlet can overload the circuit, leading to overheating and even electrical fires.

How to Avoid It:

  • Avoid “daisy chaining” multiple power boards together.
  • Spread out high-powered appliances across different outlets.
  • Use surge-protected power boards and consider having extra outlets installed by a licensed electrician.

Old or Faulty Wiring

The Risk:

Aging or deteriorated wiring can’t always keep up with modern power demands, increasing the risk of electrical faults, shorts, and fires.

How to Avoid It:
  • Have your home’s wiring inspected every 10 years, especially if it’s more than 30 years old.
  • Look out for signs like flickering lights, burning smells, or discoloured power points.
  • Engage a licenced electrician to upgrade your wiring if needed.

Electrical Appliances Near Water

The Risk:

Water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Using appliances near sinks, bathtubs, or pools significantly raises the chance of electric shock.

How to Avoid It:
  • Keep all electrical devices and cords away from wet areas.
  • Use waterproof covers for outdoor power points.
  • Install Residual Current Devices (RCDs) or safety switches to quickly cut off power in case of faults.

Damaged Power Cords and Plugs

The Risk:

Frayed wires or cracked plugs can expose live electrical components, putting you at risk of electric shock or fire.

How to Avoid It:
  • Regularly inspect cords and replace any that are damaged.
  • Never run cords under rugs or through doorways where they can be pinched or worn.
  • Avoid yanking cords from the wall, always pull the plug itself.

Unprotected Outdoor Outlets

The Risk:

Exposure to rain, humidity, and dust can damage outdoor electrical components, leading to shorts or fires.

How to Avoid It:
  • Use weatherproof enclosures for all external outlets and switches.
  • Have outdoor lighting and power points installed by a qualified professional.
  • Ensure outdoor connections are protected by RCDs.

Stay Safe with Airmelec 

Your home should be a safe haven, not a hidden hazard zone. At Airmelec, we provide comprehensive residential electrical services to ensure your home is both functional and secure. Whether you need an inspection, repairs, or safety upgrades, our team of licenced electricians is here to help.