Need An Electrician? Safety Precautions When Working With Electrical Devices | Conway, SC
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When working with electricity, it’s important to proceed with caution. Electrical currents can seriously injure someone so ensure that you know what you are doing. Otherwise, get a professional electrician for assistance.
If you decide to do repairs or installations by yourself, follow the safety guidelines we have provided below.
1. Avoid Water
When working with electricity or any electrical device, never attempt to touch or repair anything when your hands are wet. You should avoid water at all times as it increases the electric current’s conductivity. When you are in contact with electricity, that will be life-threatening for you. If you are not comfortable repairing or installing anything electricity-related, contact an electrician for assistance. Licensed professionals are equipped with the right tools and experience to help you tackle problems or issues related to electricity.
2. Turn Off the Main Switch
If you are doing repairs, ensure that the main power source is turned off. You can also inform family members that you are working at home so they do not turn the power back on. Also, make sure that you wear insulated gloves when touching electronic devices or using electrical equipment. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes.
Homeowners who are not comfortable working with electrical equipment may hire a licensed electrician in Conway, SC.
3. Use Only Proper Equipment and Tools
Electricity is dangerous. We always advise homeowners not to attempt a DIY especially if they are not really familiar with how electricity works. It’s always best to call a licensed professional for help. Should you decide to work with electricity, do make sure that the tools or equipment you are using do not have frayed cords or broken cords. Always use insulated tools at all times to prevent major accidents.
4. Make Sure Equipment Is in Good Working Order
Before doing any repairs or installations, check whether the tool you will be using works. Do all the proper tests and if you suspect that it might not be in working order, turn off the power right away. It’s risky to use equipment that may be compromised; either get new equipment or consider hiring an electrician to help you resolve your problem.
5. Keep Flammable Liquids Away
Never store highly flammable liquids near the electrical equipment you are working on. The chemicals in them can be extremely dangerous, heat or a tiny spark may ignite them. If possible, avoid storing this kind of liquid in your home especially when you have kids. If it’s not possible to get rid of them, do make sure that they are safely stored – away from major electrical devices.
6. Be Familiar with Electrical Code
This code is a standard set of rules and regulations for the installation of electrical wiring to ensure safety for both the residents and the property. Before proceeding with your work, do make sure that you know about the code in your area to stay on top of the best practices on any electrical installation. Better yet, hire a professional as they understand all the codes and are highly competent at getting the job done.
7. Use the Right Ladder
For safety purposes, never use an aluminum ladder when doing any electrical repairs or installations. Wood and fiberglass are the best options as they do not conduct electricity. When buying a ladder, consider getting fiberglass. Although they can be expensive, they last better than wood. Wood may rot especially when it’s exposed to a wet environment.
8. Never Touch a Person Who Has Been Electrocuted
If you are working with a partner and he has been electrocuted, never attempt to help him by touching him. Keep in mind that when you touch someone who has been electrocuted, the current also travels to your body. You will be electrocuted too. What you can do is turn off the main power source and get help immediately. If there are materials like wood or plastic near you, consider pushing that person away using a non-conducting material.
9. Be Attentive
To stay safe at all times, you need to be mindful and observant of what you are doing. If you think there is something wrong with the electrical device or equipment, turn it off right away. Continue only when you are sure everything is safe.
When Working With Electrical Cables
When you are repairing cuts in the cables, do not use insulating tape. For connecting them together, always use proper cable connectors. The cable ends should be firmly held together to avoid wires from coming loose. For damaged cables, it is better to replace them completely. Get an electrician in your area if you are not sure whether you are doing the right thing.
Why You Need to Hire a Licensed Electrician
Electrical work can be dangerous especially to someone who is not competent and who does not have enough experience working with electricity. It’s imperative that you hire only a licensed electrician from a reliable company. In the event of fires, your insurance company may not cover it when you decided to go with a handyman. Also, electricians know all the safety precautions needed and they can get the job done the first time.
Contact Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach
Do you need the services of a licensed electrician in Conway, SC? At Mister Sparky of Myrtle Beach, we guarantee the safety and ensure that repair or installation is completed. We take pride in our commitment to providing exceptional services to all homeowners in the area. Our professional staff is always ready to assist and will be happy to provide clarifications or answer any inquiry. Call us today for a hassle-free appointment.