Electricity has become the driving force in every up to date technology idea and device that we are enjoying nowadays. But, however useful electricity is, there continues to be quite a sizeable incidence of electricity-related mishaps throughout the planet. Every day, electrical accidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying degrees and most horrible of all, death due to electrical faults.
Why is Electricity so Dangerous?
Overhead power lines that carry in the region of 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers possess "live" components that are hazardous. Underground wires are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for example can damage them, thus producing an electric shock. Electricity every time will find the shortest way to the ground. It will seek every good conductor that it can pass through to get to the earth. Because your body is roughly 70% water, it instantly becomes a good conductor for 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 producing an electric shock that can be harmful or even lethal.
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 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. Home electrical devices and wires also have the potential to harm you if you don't 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 incidents can be averted by following simple safety tips in the house. It is essential that you educate your children about following and practicing electrical safety measures.
Electrical Sockets and Cables.
Check plug sockets for slack fitting plugs which could overheat and cause a fire. If wall plates are missing or damaged be sure to replace them. If there are offspring in the home, 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 furniture.
See to it that cables are in good condition and not frayed or worn. Cables should not be nailed against walls or sited 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 brief basis only. When unplugging cables remember to pull the plug from the outlet and not the cable itself.
Electrical Appliances.
All unused devices have got to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young kids, pets. Be certain 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 areas 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 seen that some people wrongly choose 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 pieces of a tree that are near the power lines, make sure you trim them. If you cannot 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, don’t touch it, even if you think it's not "live". Call the proper establishment.
Author Resource:
Playing with electricity can be a very dangerous occupation. When I need any electrical work doing myself I call in a qaulified person. I can usually get this person from a reputable company by using the search term 'electrician london '. I use this term in particular because most of my properties that I own are situated in London
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