Electricity powers our homes, but it’s not without its potential hazards. Maintaining electrical safety in your home should never be an afterthought—it’s something you should actively prioritize. Unfortunately, many of us only realize the importance of electrical safety after an incident occurs in our homes. Knowing what goes into electrical safety and using a little common sense can go a long way in preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of your family and the safety of your property.
At Mr. Electric of Austin, we are dedicated to helping homeowners maintain electrical safety. In this article, we share essential safety tips that every homeowner should follow. If you’re looking for a licensed electrician in Kyle, we are the experts to call.
1) Don’t Ignore the Small Stuff
Issues like a buzzing outlet, a light switch that’s warm to the touch, or circuit breakers that trip more often than seems reasonable might seem like minor annoyances, but they’re often signs of a deeper issue. Electrical problems do not fix themselves. If you’re noticing patterns such as flickering lights when you use the microwave or sparks when you plug in an appliance, call a licensed electrician. The earlier you call an electrician to diagnose and fix the problem, the less likely it is to escalate into a more dangerous and costly situation.
2) Be Smart with Extension Cords
We’ve all been guilty of plugging in a power strip to another power strip just to squeeze in one more device. But “daisy chaining” extension cords and power strips is one of the most common ways electrical fires start in homes. Extension cords are meant for temporary use, such as for seasonal decorations or a short-term office setup. If you find yourself relying on them every day, it might be time to install more outlets in those high-traffic areas.
3) Childproofing Isn’t Just for Kids
Even if you don’t have toddlers running around, safety covers on outlets are worth considering—especially in guest rooms or areas that aren’t frequently used. Pets, visitors, or even a dropped piece of jewelry can create unexpected risks. If you’re in a household with small children, this step is non-negotiable. Invest in tamper-resistant outlets or sliding covers that automatically close when not in use. Reach out to a licensed electrician in Kyle to help you childproof your electrical outlets.
4) Water and Electricity Don’t Mix
It seems obvious, but the number of people who use hair dryers next to a sink full of water is staggering. Keep appliances well away from water sources, and consider installing GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) in any room where moisture is present—kitchens, bathrooms, laundry areas, and outdoor outlets. These devices are designed to shut off power the moment they detect an imbalance and are one of the simplest ways to prevent shock. It’s advisable to test your GFCI outlets from time to time to ensure they’re in good working order.
5) Don’t DIY What You Don’t Understand
There’s pride in being a capable homeowner. Replacing a light fixture or installing a dimmer switch might seem like a weekend project, but it’s easy to make costly or dangerous mistakes if you’re not 100% sure what you’re doing. It’s always best to err on the side of caution. A professional electrician in Kyle can spot outdated wiring or safety issues that wouldn’t even be on your radar.
Mr. Electric of Austin Is Here To Help You with All Your Electrical Needs
Do not wait for electrical problems or accidents to arise before taking action. Reach out to Mr. Electric of Austin for a comprehensive home electrical safety inspection. Our professional electricians are ready to assist you in keeping your electrical system in tip-top condition.
