Electricity has grown to be the driving force in every modern technology idea and device that we are enjoying these days. But, however useful electricity is, there remains to be quite a sizeable incidence of electricity-related mishaps throughout the planet. Every year, electrical accidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying degrees and worst of all, death due to electrical faults.
Why is Electricity so Dangerous?
Overhead power lines which carry approximately 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers include "live" parts that are dangerous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for example could damage them, therefore producing an electric shock. Electricity always will find the shortest route to the ground. It will seek every good conductor that it can pass through to get to the ground. Because your body is about 70% water, it instantly becomes a good conductor for electricity. If you touch a live wire while your feet are touching the ground, electricity will pass through your body to get to the ground causing an electric shock that can be wounding or even fatal.
Electric current can also produce extensive burns to your body. The lung and heart muscles can also be affected by electric shock. Direct current (DC) can make muscles involuntarily contract while alternating current (AC) can cause the heart to fibrillate.
Power lines are not the only cables that will damage you if you make contact to them. Home electrical equipment and wires also have the capability to harm you if you do not know how to take precautions. December is the most hazardous month in terms of electrical fires. This is because there are more indoor activities during 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 observing easy safety tips in the house. It is imperative that you educate the children about following and using electrical safety measures.
Electrical Sockets and Cables.
Check plug sockets for slack fitting plugs that could overheat and cause a fire. If wall plates are gone or damaged be sure to replace them. If there are kids in the home, cover all wall outlets as a safety precaution and tell your kids not to play around the sockets. If possible, cover wall outlets or sockets with furnishings.
See to it that cables are in good condition and not threadbare or worn. Cables should not be nailed against walls or placed under heavy fitted carpet. Donot put any furnishings 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 devices have to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young kids, pets. Be certain that devices that create heat have some clearance all around for cooling and air flow. When using equipment follow instructions and do not carry out repairs that you are not experienced to do. It is best to keep all electrical equipment away from places where water is present such as sinks, lavatories, swimming pools, tubs or any overhead vents that might drip. Remember not to operate electrical equipment with wet hands or while 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 noticed that some people mistakenly 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 parts of a tree that are near the power lines, make sure you trim them. If you are not able to 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 touch it, even if you think it is not "live". Call the proper establishment.
Author Resource:
I have always had the properties that I own maintained by the same electrician london company and over the years they have saved me a lot of money, just by giving me some very useful advise.
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