Vancouver Electrical Safety Hazards
Every home or business owner is afraid of fire. At best a fire can do irreparable damage to property. At worst, your family’s life could be at risk. Prudent homeowners in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, and Langley take take safety precautions to safeguard their homes, possessions, businesses, and families. They install fire detectors and handle flames with care. But too many of us overlook the danger of electrical fires, and behave in ways that make electrical fires more likely. When considering the fire safety of your building, don’t overlook these common causes of electrical fires.
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Overloading outlets.
Ever seen an outlet stuffed with extension cords, power bars, and every manner of electrical appliance? It’s common in the Lower Mainland because many of us live in older houses with too few outlets for our modern, gadget-enhanced lives. Overusing those outlets is dangerous and extension cords should be a short-term solution. Instead, call an electrician to update your electrical system.
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Using appliances that are past their best-before date.
Appliances don’t last forever, and older appliances can be a fire hazard. Be particularly careful of appliances in poor condition, those with frayed or damaged cords, or those with damaged plugs. Read the maintenance instructions for your major appliances, and follow them. In addition, always be careful to use the correct bulb in your lighting fixtures. As we approach holiday decorating time, remember to carefully inspect any electrical item that has been stored for the year before plugging it in.
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Placing appliances in dangerous locations.
It’s important to be careful when using appliances near flammable material, such as curtains. As we enter the cold winter months, pay particular attention to heating pads, space heaters, and electric blankets. Supervise their use and use them sparingly. Bedding, curtains, and other fabric are all very flammable.
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Only Use Licensed Electricians
Never allow anyone to do electrical work in your home or building except for a licensed electrician. Licensed electricians undergo years of training to ensure that the work they do for you meets the highest standards of safety. Electrical work is never a DIY job. The consequences of a mistake can be deadly.
Get an Electrical Safety Inspection from a Vancouver Electrician
If you suspect your electrical system may be a fire risk, calling a licensed electrician and arranging an inspection may be the best decision you make all year. Pro Ace has licensed electricians available to inspect your electrical system, update your wiring, and make necessary repairs. Pro Ace electricians serve Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Langley, and Surrey.
Call Pro Ace at 604-293-3770 for your electrical inspection today!