Electricity is an important part of our daily lives at both home and work, as well as a wonderful convenience. But as with many things, electricity can be dangerous if used incorrectly, says Indiana Electric Cooperatives (IEC).

“According to the National Fire Protection Association, about 51,000 home fires happen each year because of electrical problems,” reports Rick Coons, CEO at IEC. “These fires cause the death of more than 500 people, injure over 1,400, and cause more than $1.3 billion in damage each year. What makes that especially sad is that most home fires could have been prevented.”

The key to remaining safe is to use electricity properly and ensuring that you have the proper safeguards at home and work. “At home, you want to pay attention to your electrical appliances and equipment, and prepare for possible emergencies, says Coons. Some steps you can take include:”

• Never use a higher-wattage light bulb than is recommended for the fixture.
• Do not run electrical cords under rugs, carpeting, or draperies, because the cords may become hot.
• Keep the use of extension cords to a minimum. Extension cords are intended for temporary uses. In addition, make sure cords are rated highly enough to handle the load.
• If you’re having problems such as flickering lights, or if fuses or circuit breakers trip often, enlist a licensed electrician to inspect the wiring.
• Damaged electrical devices should be taken to a professional repair service or replaced.
• Install smoke alarms throughout your home and check the batteries in them every year. Smoke alarms should be installed in every bedroom and at least one on each level of your home.
• Have a fire extinguisher that’s rated for Class C (electrical) fires.

Another good idea is to have your home’s electrical system inspected every few years by a qualified electrician. An electrician will be able to spot potential problem areas and verify that you’re using electricity safely. He or she will also be able to tell you if your home’s safety would benefit from replacing the fuse box or traditional circuit breakers with the new arc-fault circuit interrupters, which can head off electrical fires.

In the workplace, electrical problems cause an estimated 300 additional deaths and 4,000 injuries annually. In fact, electrical accidents are the nation’s sixth-greatest cause of work-related deaths. Following these common-sense steps can reduce the chance of suffering an electrical-related injury:

• Before beginning a task, plan carefully, consider the potential hazards, and determine steps you can take to eliminate or minimize those hazards.
• Be sure you have the right tools to perform each task safely.
• Whenever possible, have a co-worker or supervisor present to verify your safety.
• Wear the correct personal protective equipment and protective clothing for the task and the workplace.

Help prevent electrically-related deaths, injuries and property loss by taking a few simple safety precautions.

SOURCES: Consumer Product Safety Commission, Electrical Safety Foundation International, National Fire Protection Association.