Electricity has grow to be the driving force in every recent technology design and device that we're enjoying today. But, however useful electricity is, there is still rather a sizeable incidence of electricity-related mishaps throughout the world. Every year, electrical incidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying levels and worst of all, death due to electrical faults.
Why is Electricity so Dangerous?
Overhead power lines which transport in the region of 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers include "live" parts that are treacherous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for instance could damage them, thus producing an electric shock. Electricity always will discover the shortest path to the earth. It will seek every good conductor that it can pass through to get to the ground. Seeing that your body is approximately 70% water, it instantly will become a good conductor of electricity. If you touch a live wire whilst your feet are touching the earth, electricity will pass through your body to get to the ground causing an electric shock that can be injurious or even deadly.
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 against your will contract whilst alternating current (AC) can cause the heart to fibrillate.
Power lines are not the only cables that can injure you if you make contact to them. Home electrical appliances and wires also have the capability to harm you if you don't know how to take safeguards. December is the most dangerous month in terms of electrical fires. This is because there are more indoor activities through this month that cause a rise inthe need for lighting, heating and appliance usage.
Electrical Safety Tips.
A number of electricity-related incidents can be avoided by following easy safety tips in the home. It is important that you educate the children about observing and practicing electrical safety measures.
Electrical Sockets and Cables.
Check plug sockets for wobbly fitting plugs which could overheat and cause a fire. If wall plates are lost or damaged be sure to replace them. If there are children in the home, cover up all wall outlets as a safety precaution and tell your offspring not to play around the sockets. If achievable, cover wall outlets or sockets with household furniture.
See to it that cables are in good condition and not frayed or worn. Cables must not be nailed onto walls or sited under heavy fitted carpet. Donot put any household 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 brief basis only. When unplugging cables remember to pull the plug from the outlet and not the cable itself.
Electrical Appliances.
All unused equipment have got to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young children, pets. Be sure that devices that generate heat have some clearance all around for cooling and air circulation. When using equipment follow instructions and do not carry out repairs that you are not qualified to do. It is best to keep all electrical appliances 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 appliances with wet hands or while standing in water. If you have radiators, heating vents or space heaters, keep away items 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 equipment 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 are not able to do it, call the local tree surgeon and ask for help in pruning the tree. Stay 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, don’t handle it, even if you think it is not "live". Call the proper establishment.
Author Resource:
I have until the end of time had the properties that I possess cared for by the same electrician london business and over the years they have saved me a batch of cash, a lot of the time it was just by providing me with extremely useful advise.
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