May Means Electrical Safety Month

Electricity plays a major part in your life, but are you using it safely? Your home is being heated and airconditioned, you are getting entertained by the TV or stereo, your loved ones are cooking or making coffee, and our teens are charging up their cell phones. All these activities require electricity.

May is Electrical Safety Month, and you need to remember that getting all your appliances and electronics powered on can also bring potential dangers to your home and family. So use the month of May to improve electrical safety where you live.

Modern families consume much more electricity than households a few decades ago. As a result, the danger of electrical fire has increased in older homes. Owners of homes 20 years old or more need to ensure their electrical panels and fixtures can safely handle modern loads.

Research by ESFI

Research by ESFI (Electrical Safety Foundation International) has shown that home electrical fires total about 50,000 every year, resulting in more than 1,400 injuries, 500 deaths, and $1.3 billion in property damages.

Basics of Electrical Safety Month

Sponsored annually by the ESFI, National Electrical Safety Month is intended to raise public awareness of electrical safety every May worldwide. People who have learned at least the basics of electrical safety for their homes can do a better job making their home and families safer. Electrical safety should be a priority for every homeowner who wants to protect their property and everyone living there.

Key Statistics Regarding Home Fires

 Gathered from ESFI’s database, below are key statistics about residential electrical fires in the USA:

• Almost two out of three deaths from residential fires can be attributed to faulty smoke detectors. 
• About 3,300 home fires annually were caused by faulty extension cords, killing more than 50 people and injuring more than 270.
• Research by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CSPC) found that electrical outlets are involved in more than 5,300 fires every year, leading to more than 40 deaths and 100 injuries.
• The third major cause of residential fires are electrical distribution systems.

For More Information:  ESFI National Electric Safety Month

Electrical Services You Can Trust

Founded in 1991, Meyer Electrical Services provides home and commercial electrical services in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C., where we are licensed and insured. Based in Bethesda, our team proudly serves all of Montgomery County. Receive a free consultation for custom electrical work today by calling (301) 941-1400.