Why Electrical Safety Matters

Electrical fires cause:
🔥 51,000+ U.S. home fires annually (NFPA)
💀 500+ deaths and $1.3B in property damage
⚠️ Most occur in December-January (holiday lighting risks)

This checklist could save your life – bookmark it!

📋 Complete Electrical Safety Checklist

(Print this section and check monthly)

1. Outlet & Wiring Inspection

✅ Do This Monthly

• Check for warm/hot outlets (fire risk)

• Test GFCI outlets (press TEST button, then RESET)

• Look for frayed wires on appliances

• Ensure no cords are pinched by furniture

• Verify outlet covers aren’t cracked

🚨 Danger Signs (Call Electrician Now)

• Burning plastic smell

• Sparks when plugging in devices

• Discolored/warped outlet plates

2. Circuit Breaker & Panel Safety

✅ Do This Quarterly

• Label unclear breakers (use a flashlight to check)

• Test breakers by switching off/on

• Check for corrosion or rust in panel

• Ensure 3-foot clearance around panel

⚠️ Professional Help Needed If…

• Breaker trips immediately when reset

• Panel makes buzzing/humming sounds

• You see aluminum wiring (common in homes built 1965-1973)

3. Appliance & Cord Safety

✅ Do This Weekly

• Unplug unused chargers (phantom energy drain)

• Check that extension cords are UL-rated

• Avoid “daisy chaining” power strips

• Keep appliances away from water sources

🔥 Fire Prevention Tips

✔ Space heaters: 3-foot rule from flammables
✔ Dryer vents: Clean every 6 months
✔ Never run cords under rugs

4. Lighting Safety

💡 Bulb Basics

• Match wattage to fixture rating

• Use LEDs (cooler than incandescents)

• Secure loose ceiling fans

🎄 Holiday Lighting Special

✔ Use UL-rated outdoor lights outside
✔ Limit to 3 strands max connected
✔ Always turn off before bed

5. Child & Pet Protection

👶 Baby-Proofing Must-Dos

• Install tamper-resistant (TR) outlets

• Use cord shorteners on blinds

• Place covers on unused outlets

🐕 Pet Safety

✔ Spray bitter apple on cords if chewing occurs
✔ Keep wires behind furniture

6. Outdoor Electrical Safety

🌧️ Weather Precautions

• Ensure outdoor outlets have weatherproof covers

• Keep tree branches 10+ feet from power lines

• Install GFCI protection for pool equipment

⚡ Storm Prep

✔ Unplug electronics before thunderstorms
✔ Know where your main disconnect is

When to DIY vs. Call a Pro

Free Resources

📥 Printable PDF Checklist: [Download Link]
📅 Seasonal Reminder Calendar: [Download Link]

FAQ

❓ How often should I check my smoke detectors?

Test monthly, replace batteries yearly, and replace units every 10 years.

❓ Are power strips safer than extension cords?

Yes – but never plug strips into other strips.

❓ What causes most electrical fires?