While you rely on electricity for a functional and safe living environment, you still need to be careful of the potential hazards posed by the system. Electrical shocks in the home can be caused by any number of mishaps or unsafe conditions, including faulty appliances, water exposure, damaged cords, and lightning strikes. Whenever possible, homeowners should take the following steps to prevent shocks and promptly call an electrician if any concerns arise.

How to Prevent Electric Shocks at Home

1. Be Careful Connecting & Disconnecting

Any device plugged into an outlet and running is under load, meaning that it's actively drawing electricity from the circuit. If you plug or unplug an item under load, the flow of power is cut off too abruptly, and this can result in an electrical arc that shocks you. 

Ensure any item you plug or unplug is first shut off to avoid injury. Some larger appliances, like washers, dryers, and refrigerators, don't have on/off switches, so you should turn off the corresponding circuit breaker in the breaker box before plugging or unplugging these items.

2. Beware of Water

Water is a natural conductor due to its makeup of dissolved ions and impurities. Exercise caution whenever you utilize electrical appliances around water, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. If possible, unplug items in these rooms when they're not in use. Talk to your electrician about installing GFI/GFCI outlets, which protect against shocks and reduce the risk of electrical fires.

3. Minimize Extension Cord Use

Extension cords are not designed to be permanent solutions. They're only intended for short-term use, like for holiday decorations or temporarily plugging in an appliance in a new location. Extension cords easily become frayed and damaged, which increases the chances of a shock or fire. 

Aim to utilize the cord for as little time as possible, and always check the tag to learn the maximum amperage so that you don't overload the circuit and get shocked. An electrician can install more outlets in your home to eliminate your need for extension cords.

When you need electrical repairs or upgrades to prevent shocks, contact Stellmach Electric LLC. They've served homeowners in the Cambridge Springs, PA, area for 18 years. Their electricians provide comprehensive residential electrical services, including wiring, panel, and outdoor lighting installations and upgrades. Call (814) 282-7637 to discuss your needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.