Be Safe at Home

Print This Page

Electrical safety tips

Follow these tips to help make your home safe and comfortable.

Home wiring

• Always call a qualified electrician to do any wiring in your home.

Fuses

• If a fuse blows, turn off all appliances and lights on the circuit before changing the fuse.
• Don't try to replace a fuse in the dark. Use a flashlight.
• Replace a blown fuse with one of the correct rating – never with a higher one.
• Periodically check that plug-type fuses are snug. A loose fuse can overheat.
• Never replace a fuse with a coin or metal object.

Cords and Plugs

• When disconnecting an appliance, pull the plug, not the cord.
• Keep all cords away from heat and water.
• If multiple electrical connections are required use a properly rated power bar.
• Do not break off or bypass the third prong of a plug. It's there because it's needed for safety reasons.
• Never use cords or plugs that show any wear or damage.
• Do not place a cord under a carpet, through a doorway or anywhere that it could be stepped on.
• Never remove a plug when your hands are wet or when touching a metal object.

Extension cords

• Keep your extension cords away from water. 
• Do not use a two pronged extension cord outdoors.
• Always use extension cords that are properly rated for the load.
• Never break off or bypass the grounding prong on a three-pronged plug.
• Worn cords can cause shocks and fires. Do not use them!
• When removing a plug from a socket, pull on the plug and not on the cord.

Appliances

• Buy appliances and tools bearing the CSA (Canadian Standards Association) seal or another accredited Standards Council of Canada association.
• Unplug the toaster before prying out toast that is wedged in.
• Never use electrical tools or appliances near water.

Power tools

• Always unplug power tools when they are not in use or when changing an attachment on them.
• Never operate power tools near water.
• Do not stand on a damp floor or wet grass when operating power tools.
• Avoid using power tools where it's possible for you to touch a grounded object such as a water faucet.
• Keep ventilation openings clean to prevent overheating.
• When unplugging, detach the cord from the wall socket first, then from the tool.

Outdoors

• If you use an electric lawnmower, only cut the grass when it's dry. Do not mow the lawn when it's raining.
• Use ground fault circuit interrupters on all plugs located outdoors.
• Keep your radio and appliances away from swimming pools or wet surfaces.
• Never prune or cut down a tree near a power line – call BC Hydro first.
• If you have an underground electrical service, call BC One Call at 1 800 474 6886 before digging.