National Electrical Safety Month

May is National Electrical Safety Month. This year’s theme is “Connected to Safety.” We rely on electricity to power our homes every day. It is important to take precautions and be safe when dealing with electric appliances and equipment. It is also important to be more energy efficient and reduce your electric bill. Air conditioning uses 17 percent of total home energy use and lighting uses 10 percent, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International.

Here are some safety tips when dealing with electricity:

• Replace chords that may be damaged.
• Do not overload electric outlets.
• Remember extension cords are intended to be temporary; they are not intended as permanent household wiring.
• Do not run cords under carpets or rugs and do not tack or nail cords to walls or floors.
• Keep electric appliances and tools away from water. Never reach for or unplug an appliance that has fallen into water; instead, turn the power off at the breaker before you unplug the appliance or remove it from the water.

Here are some ways to prepare your home for safe and efficient energy use:

• Use a smart plug or power strip to turn off power when devices are not in use.
• LED lightbulbs last longer than traditional bulbs and use 25-80% less energy.
• Heat only the area you are in with energy-efficient space heaters.
• Utilize home automation to control HVAC and lighting systems while not at home.

We can help make sure your home is safe and energy efficient! Give us a call 1-410-867-1202 and we will make sure you are “Connected to Safety.”