Electricity has grow to be the driving force in every modern technological idea and device that we are enjoying nowadays. But, however useful electricity is, there is still rather a considerable incidence of electricity-related mishaps all over the world. Every day, electrical incidents account for hundreds of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying levels and most horrible of all, fatality due to electrical faults.
Why is Electricity so dangerous?
Overhead power lines that carry approximately 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers include "live" components that are dangerous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for instance could damage them, consequently 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 approximately 70% water, it instantly becomes a good conductor for 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 creating an electric shock that can be harmful or even lethal.
Electric current can also generate 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 injure you if you make contact to them. Household electrical devices and wires also have the capability to harm you if you don't know how to take safeguards. December is the most hazardous 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 accidents can be prevented by following simple safety tips in the house. It is imperative that you educate your children about observing and practicing electrical safety procedures.
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 house, cover up 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 frayed or worn. Cables should not be nailed onto walls or positioned under heavy flooring. Donot put any pieces of 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 must be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young kids, pets. Ensure 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 qualified to do. It is best to keep all electrical devices away from locations where water is present such as sinks, lavatories, swimming pools, tubs or any overhead vents that may drip. Bear in mind not to operate electrical devices 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 flammable materials.
Outdoor Electrical Safety.
It has long been seen that some people wrongly elect to use electric lawn mowers or devices when it is raining or when the grass is wet. Stop! You will only electricute yourself.
If there are parts 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. 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, do not handle it, even if you think it's not "live". Call the proper establishment.
Author Resource:
I have always had all of the properties that I own maintained by the same company, they go by the name of Electrician london . Over the years they have saved me plenty of money, just by giving me some very useful advise and help.
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