Avoiding Electrical Hazards: Safe Practices

Thanks to the brilliant work of electrical engineers and trained electricians, electrical systems today are far safer than they used to be. But safety isn’t guaranteed. It depends on people using the system the right way. So, whether you’re a homeowner, renter, business owner, or property manager, it pays to be aware of a few key safe practices that help prevent electrical hazards.

This brief article brought to you by Mr. Electric is meant to offer some safety tips and keep you - and your electrical system - clear. If you'd rather consult a certified electrician, then call or message Mr. Electric to get in touch with a member of our team today.

Don’t Ignore That "Funny Smell" or Warm Outlet

If you notice a light switch or outlet that feels hot, sparks when you plug something in, or gives off a burning smell, then stop using it. These are signs of electrical issues behind the scenes - such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits. These small warnings can escalate into dangerous fires if left unaddressed.

It’s always advisable to call a certified electrician as soon as you notice anything unusual. A professional can check for deeper issues and safely make the necessary repairs.

Don’t Overload Your Outlets or Power Strips

We’re all guilty of plugging too many things into one spot, especially around TVs, desks, or kitchen counters, but overloading outlets or power strips is one of the top causes of electrical fires. Even if you’re using a surge protector, that doesn’t mean you can plug in 10 high-powered devices at once.

As general rules of thumb:

• High-wattage appliances like microwaves, space heaters, or hairdryers should be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
• Avoid daisy-chaining power strips (plugging one into another).
• Use one extension cord per outlet, and only for short-term use.

If you feel like you don't have enough outlets, then talk to a certified electrician in Saginaw, TX about upgrading your system or installing new outlets in high-demand areas. The pros at Mr. Electric have the experience, expertise, and equipment to handle this according to code and standards.

Keep Water and Electricity Far Apart

This one might sound like common sense, but it’s one of the most frequent causes of electrocution - especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas. Always keep electrical devices and cords away from sinks, tubs, or pools.

Moreover, install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets in moisture-prone areas and make sure they work. GFCIs are designed to shut off power instantly if they detect abnormal current flow. In fact, most building codes now require GFCIs in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoor outlets.

Don’t DIY Electrical Repairs

YouTube tutorials can be helpful for a lot of things. Changing your oil, patching drywall, or unclogging a drain are DIY-friendly, but electrical service is a whole different ballgame. One wrong wire, and you could cause an injury, a house fire, or void your homeowner’s insurance.

When it comes to electrical systems, always hire a certified electrician. They’ll make sure the work is done safely, up to code, and backed by warranties. It’s not just about safety; it's also about savings and peace of mind.

Hire a Uniformed Electrician with Mr. Electric

Mr. Electric is not your run-of-the-mill company. We're a tried-and-true business with decades of industry experience, uniformed staff, certified and regularly-trained electricians in Fort Worth, upfront price quotes, and more. In fact, we're so confident that we back our talk with a 1-year workmanship guarantee.