Protecting Your Loved Ones From an Electrical Accident

Encourage caregivers to familiarize themselves with some basic tips to help maximize the safety of the seniors in their care while minimizing the risks associated with electricity. Electrical accidents are a leading cause of home fires every year.

Electrical fires are more common in older homes with aging electrical systems. Tips:

1. Verify that the home’s electrical system is in compliance with the most up to date electrical codes. Contact a licensed electrician to conduct a quick home electrical safety inspection. The electrician should determine the following:

The circuit breaker panel board should be properly labeled. When the power goes out in a specific section of the home, labels serve as a quick way to know which breaker to flip to restore power. The circuit breaker has a detection system designed to prevent fires.

Wall outlets should also include detection devices such as a ground fault circuit interrupters which can detect an imbalance or leakage of electrical currents that can cause lethal shock.

Let the electrician know if you’re noticing any of the following: frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers; a tingling feeling or slight shock when you touch an appliance; outlets and/or switches that are warm or make crackling, sizzling or buzzing noises; or flickering or dimming lights.

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