Here are a fewtips from Steve Campolo, Leviton’s vice president of Codes, Standards & Compliance, on preventing electrical fires in your home. Don't make these mistakes:
1. You are using extension cords incorrectly. Each year, 3,330 residential fires originate near extension cords according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (EFSI), often because homeowners are using them incorrectly. Extension cords should only be used temporarily, and should never run along furniture or under rugs. Also, the third prong of the plug should never be removed just to fit an outlet.
2. You are using damaged receptacles. If your outlet won’t hold a plug tightly, if part of your outlet is cracked or if your outlet is discolored, your receptacle is damaged and it’s best to change it as soon as possible in hopes of preventing one of the 5,300 fires that originate near electrical receptacles each year, according to the EFSI.
3. You are not using AFCI receptacles. More than 50 percent of the electrical fires that occur every year could be prevented with the installation of Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs), according to the EFSI. AFCIs immediately shut off power when a fire hazard – or arc fault – is recognized. Try installing an AFCI receptacle such as Leviton’s SmartlockPro® Outlet Branch Circuit (OBC) AFCI receptacle in place of a traditional outlet to provide additional electrical safety.
4. You are “overlamping” your light fixtures. As a general rule of thumb, most light fixtures can accommodate up to 60W bulbs. Using any bulb with a higher wattage than the fixture is able to accommodate is called “overlamping” and should be avoided. Always be sure to check the warning label on the fixture or lamp for maximum wattage.
Remember: You need to educate yourself before doing your own electrical wiring. Before doing any electrical wiring projects, it is recommended that you refer to credible resources located online, (such as those available at leviton.com or youtube.com/levitonmfg), for homeowners who are interested in doing their own electrical wiring. These resources outline electrical safety practices recognized by industry professionals and should be followed carefully while completing any electrical wiring projects to avoid serious fire hazards in the home. Be sure to check for any permits and inspections that may be required by your local building department. If you are unsure about any aspect of an electrical project, consult a licensed electrician.