Fire Prevention - Using Household Appliances Wisely

by DoItYourself Staff

Fire prevention can be simple and stress-free if you follow some basic ground rules.

Electrical Cords

Make sure all appliances have fully functioning electrical cords; frayed endings or endings where the inner wire is exposed are unpredictable, and should be repaired immediately.

Checking for Danger

Inspect all electrical outlets frequently. Be sure there are no black or burned marks on or around the outlets, which indicate dangerous malfunction.

Go Professional

Have an electrician inspect and replace old or damaged outlets. Stripped or deteriorating wires may be lurking behind old outlet covers; hiring a professional to do a run-through and ensure outlets are functioning properly is well worth the investment.

Risk reducers

Turn off major appliances when leaving your home, especially coffee makers, toaster ovens, and space heaters. Particularly if you will be away for more than one day, unplug as many appliances as possible.

Power strips

Avoid overloading power strips. Overloading a strip with too many plugs dramatically increases the chances of a short circuit.

Bedtime safety

Never sleep with an electric blanket plugged in or turned on. Although it might be tempting, leaving an electric blanket on during the night can easily start a fire when the family is most vulnerable.