Electricity has become the driving force in every modern technological design and appliance that we are using these days. But, however useful electricity is, there is still rather a considerable incidence of electricity-related mishaps all over the globe. Every year, electrical incidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying levels and worst of all, loss of life due to electrical faults.
Why is Electricity so Dangerous?
Overhead power lines which transport about 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers possess "live" components that are hazardous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for instance could potentially damage them, therefore producing an electric shock. Electricity always will find the shortest route to the earth. It will seek every good conductor that it can pass through to get to the earth. Seeing that your body is about 70% water, it instantly becomes a good conductor of electricity. If you touch a live wire while your feet are touching the earth, electricity will pass through your body to get to the ground creating an electric shock that can be wounding or even deadly.
Electric current can also produce extensive burns in your body. The lung and heart muscles can also be affected by electric shock. Direct current (DC) can make muscles involuntarily contract whilst alternating current (AC) can cause the heart to fibrillate.
Power lines are not the only cables that will injure you if you make contact to them. Home electrical equipment and wires also have the capability to harm you if you don't know how to take precautions. December is the most dangerous month in terms of electrical fires. This is because there are more indoor activities all through this month that cause a rise inthe need for lighting, heating and appliance usage.
Electrical Safety Tips.
A number of electricity-related accidents can be prevented by following simple safety tips in the house. It is important that you educate the children about observing and using electrical safety procedures.
Electrical Sockets and Cables.
Check plug sockets for wobbly fitting plugs that could overheat and create a fire. If wall plates are gone or broken be sure to replace them. If there are kids in the house, cover up all wall outlets as a safety precaution and tell your offspring not to play around the sockets. If possible, cover wall outlets or sockets with home furniture.
See to it that cables are in good condition and not threadbare or worn. Cables must not be nailed against walls or positioned under heavy flooring. Donot put any furniture on top of them. If you are using extension cables, make sure that they are not overloaded. Extension cables should only be used on a temporary basis only. When unplugging cables remember to pull the plug from the outlet and not the cable itself.
Electrical Appliances.
All unused appliances have to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young offspring, pets. Be certain that devices that create heat have some clearance all around for cooling and air flow. When using devices follow instructions and do not carry out repairs that you are not qualified to do. It is best to keep all electrical devices away from spots where water is present such as sinks, lavatories, swimming pools, tubs or any overhead vents that might drip. Remember not to operate electrical devices with wet hands or whilst standing in water. If you have radiators, heating vents or space heaters, keep away articles of clothing, toys, curtains or any combustible materials.
Outdoor Electrical Safety.
It has long been seen that some people wrongly decide to use electric lawn mowers or tools when it is raining or when the grass is wet. Stop! You'll only electricute yourself.
If there are segments of a tree that are near the power lines, make sure you trim them. If you can't do it, call the local tree surgeon and ask for help in pruning the tree. Keep away from power lines when you are flying kites or model airplanes. If there is an electrical storm (lightning) do not swim or play near water. If you see a power line that is down, do not handle it, even if you think it's not "live". Call the proper establishment.
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