What you need to know about electricity:

• Electricity is distributed at 230 V through most switches and outlets. A typical overhead distribution line has 11000 volts per wire.
• Electricity always attempts to travel to the ground. Electricity will always follow the path of least resistance, or the easiest way. Your body may become the shortest path to the ground if you come in contact with electrical circuits. If you are the tallest object in a field during a thunderstorm, your body may become the shortest path to the ground for a lightning bolt (static electricity).
• The path of least resistance is always through the best conductor of electricity. Some good conductors of electricity are:

- water

- synthetic materials made from hydrocarbons

- The human body is also a good conductor of electricity. This is because your body is primarily composed of water.

For all practical purposes, electricity's movement is instantaneous. If you contact an electrical current, you are given no warning; there is no time to react.

Precautions:

• Look for outlets that have loose fitting plugs. If you have loose fitting plugs, have them fixed by a qualified electrician.
• Don't force a plug into an outlet if it won't fit. Plugs should fit securely in outlets.
• Replace broken plates on outlets and switches so that no wiring is exposed.
• Make sure the amperage rating for an extension cord is greater than, or equal to, the tool you will be using. You can determine this by comparing the rating labels on both the cord and tool you intend to use.
• Routinely inspect all cords and wiring for broken or frayed insulation. Immediately repair or replace unsafe cords.
• Avoid pinch points such as doors or windows. Doors and windows can be accidentally closed, cutting insulation and exposing bare wiring.
• Don't staple or nail cords or wiring to walls or floors.
• Don't allow cords to come into contact with oil or other corrosive materials.
• Before using an extension cord outside or in a wet area, confirm that the cord is rated for outdoor use and make sure the cord is connected to an Earth leakage circuit breaker.

Statistics show that about 10 percent of all fires in apartments and houses are caused by faults in a building's electrical distribution system. Here are some rules for fuses and breaker panels to head off potential safety problems in your home.
 
 

• Use correct size fuses and breakers for circuits. Size refers to a circuit's amperage rating. If you don't know the rating, have a qualified electrician identify and label the sizes to be used.
• Never overload branch circuits by operating more appliances than the circuits were designed to handle. Remember: several outlets are usually connected to one branch circuit!
• Disconnect immediately if an appliance blows a fuse, trips a breaker or emits sparks or sizzling sounds. Discard the appliance or have it repaired.
• Avoid heated surfaces. Don't place appliance cords where they will come into contact with the stove or other heated surfaces.
• Protect young children by not allowing appliance cords to hang over counter tops where they can be accidentally pulled down.
• Unplug all non-essential electrical appliances when not in use.
• Do not use lightweight extension cords, intended for indoor use, outdoors. Indoor cords are not designed to be used in areas where damp conditions may exist. Check labeling to verify the cord is designed for outdoor use. It is a good idea to mark your extension cords according to their usage.

Electrical fires are frequently caused by overloaded equipment and circuits. This can cause insulation to burn, create sparks, and leave exposed wires.

• Prevent oil and dirt buildup on electrical appliances. This situation can cause electrical equipment to overheat and short circuit. When buildup does occur, shut off electrical equipment and unplug its power supply. Use only clean dry rags and brushes and follow manufacturer's instructions.
• Don't overload electrical equipment by attempting to do heavier jobs than the equipment was intended for.
• Keep area around electrical equipment clear of combustibles such as sawdust, paper, cardboard, and flammable liquids.
• Shut off all electrical equipment that produces odd sounds, odd smells or sparks. Have it checked by a qualified technician.

Make sure your children understand the basics of electrical safety. Here are some tips:

• Keep all appliance and extension cords out of reach as much as possible. Your children tend to grab fro things, especially when they are learning to stand or walk.
• Prevent young children from playing with electrical outlets by placing plastic caps or covers over unused outlets.
• Make sure older children know the correct way to disconnect an appliance is by pulling the plug directly from the socket and not by pulling the cord.
• Routinely check trees in your yard for proximity to power lines.
• Teach children that they should fly kites only in open areas, with plenty of running room, away from power lines, roads and trees.
• Children should be taught never to touch a victim of electrical shock or the appliance involved.