Electric shock can cause death
When working with electrical equipment wear rubber-soled shoes, avoid damp locations and hold all tools by their insulated handles. Never touch conductive surfaces such as pipes or metal bracing. Use a non-conductive fiberglass ladder when working with electricity. Avoid shorting electrical circuits.
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
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If a fuse blows or a circuit breaker is tripped, don’t just replace or reset it. Find out what caused the circuit to overload and correct the problem.
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Never replace a fuse or circuit breaker with one that exceeds the amperage rating for a given circuit.
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Avoid using several high-amperage appliances - such as irons or other heat-producing appliances - on the same circuit.
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Never replace a fuse with a penny or any other material that conducts electricity.
Appliances
- All household appliances should bear the label of an independent testing laboratory, indicating that they meet basic safety standards.
- Keep heat-producing appliances, such as electric space heaters, electric ranges, and irons at least three feet (one meter) away from furniture, curtains, bedding, or anything that will burn.
- Allow plenty of air space around televisions, computers, and stereos to prevent overheating.
- Keep electrical cords away from heat-producing appliances, such as toasters and coffee makers.
- Be sure that detachable appliance cords, such as those used with coffee makers, deep-fat fryers, and popcorn poppers are rated for the electrical-load requirements of the appliance
Electrical Outlets
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Have a professional electrician replace old or damaged outlets with modern, three-wired, polarized receptacles. Proper grounding is essential to minimize fire and shock hazards.
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Plugs should match outlets. Three-pronged plugs require three-wired receptacles or a properly grounded adapter. Polarized plugs (now standard), with one prong wider than the other, require polarized receptacles.
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Never cut off or bend the ground pin of a three-pronged plug. This ground connection protects you from severe shock caused by a faulty cord or malfunctioning appliance.
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Never alter the wide prong of a polarized plug to make it fit into an outdated outlet. Have the outlet replaced and properly grounded.
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Protect children from electrical shock by installing plastic safety inserts in unused outlets.
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