You probably know that you shouldn’t plug too many items into one outlet or use electrical cords that are old and frayed, but there are other steps you can take to prevent an electrical fire from taking place in your home. Doing something as simple as having an electrician come to your home to inspect your electrical wiring can help prevent a fire down the line. You should have a residential electrician in San Jose visit your home today. Here are some other steps you can take to prevent electrical fires.
Replace Old Wiring in Your Home
Electrical wiring typically only lasts about 30 to 40 years, but many homeowners have wiring in their homes that is much older than that. As a result, they are taking a risk every single time they flip a light switch on. If you find that your circuit breaker is constantly overloaded or you have extension cords running from one room to another because certain outlets don’t work, you likely need new electrical wiring in your home. You should speak with an electrician immediately.
Check to Make Sure You Aren’t Using Any Counterfeit Electrical Items
Have you ever purchased an extension cord that seemed ridiculously cheap? Or do you have a power strip that has four or five items plugged into it that was purchased at a flea market? These electrical products could very well be counterfeit, and they could pose a serious threat to you and your family. You should only use products that are legit to reduce the risk of the products igniting a fire in your home.
Purchase Several Fire Extinguishers for Your Home
Putting out an electrical fire can be difficult, because these types of fires can result in electrocution if you try to put them out with water. Instead, you should have fire extinguishers located throughout your home to put out electrical fires. In the event that one takes place, you will be prepared to deal with it quickly. Call a certified electrician today to try to prevent it from getting to that point in the first place.