As fall temperatures drop, many homeowners and businesses use more electricity to stay warm, light up darker evenings, and prepare for holiday gatherings. However, with increased energy use comes a higher risk of electrical issues. Addressing common electrical hazards in the fall can help prevent safety risks and avoid disruptions as the season progresses. Here are some key hazards to be aware of and prevention tips:
1. Overloaded Circuits
During fall, people may plug in extra devices such as space heaters, heating blankets, and decorative lighting. This can overload circuits, potentially leading to tripped breakers or electrical fires.
Prevention Tips: To avoid overloading circuits, distribute appliances and lighting across different outlets and circuits. If you’re unsure which outlets share a circuit, consult a professional electrician to prevent overloading. Consider using power strips with built-in circuit breakers and avoid using multiple high-wattage devices on the same outlet.
2. Faulty or Damaged Extension Cords
In the fall, people often use extension cords to power extra heating and lighting, both indoors and outdoors. Damaged cords or those rated only for indoor use pose hazards if overburdened or exposed to damp conditions.
Prevention Tips: Inspect extension cords before use, checking for visible damage such as fraying or exposed wires. Only outdoor-rated extension cords should be paired with outdoor lights and decorations. It’s important to avoid running cords under rugs or through high-traffic areas, as this can lead to wear and overheating.
3. Outdoor Electrical Hazards
Fall brings increased rainfall and moisture, which can be hazardous for outdoor outlets, lighting, and holiday decorations that aren’t properly weatherproofed.
Prevention Tips: Protect outdoor electrical connections by using weatherproof outlet covers, especially on outlets exposed to the elements. Ensure that all outdoor lights and decorations are suitable for outdoor use, and avoid placing them near water. For extra safety, install GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets outdoors to prevent shock hazards.
4. Space Heater Safety
Space heaters are a popular choice for extra warmth in the fall but can pose risks of fire if left unattended.
Prevention Tips: Choose space heaters with built-in safety features, such as automatic shut-off if they tip over. Place heaters on a flat, non-flammable surface at least three feet away from any objects, curtains, or furniture. Never leave a space heater on unattended, and plug it directly into an outlet rather than using an extension cord.
5. Increased Demand for Old or Outdated Electrical Systems
The increased demand for electricity in the colder months may cause older homes and buildings to struggle, leading to issues, including frequent tripped breakers, flickering lights, or overheating in the wiring.
Prevention Tips: If you’re noticing signs of strain on your electrical system, such as flickering lights or warm outlets, it may be time to have a licensed electrician evaluate your system. Upgrading old wiring or adding circuits can help distribute the electrical load more effectively and prevent future hazards.
6. Holiday Lighting Safety
As the season moves closer to winter, holiday lighting starts to come into play, which can lead to overloaded circuits or exposed wires if lights aren’t inspected before use.
Prevention Tips: Inspect all holiday lighting before installation to ensure there are no damaged or exposed wires. Replace any broken bulbs or frayed wires immediately. Use timers to automatically turn lights off when not in use to prevent overheating, and avoid daisy-chaining multiple strands of lights to a single outlet.
Taking these steps to address common electrical hazards in the fall can help you stay safe, prevent electrical fires, and keep your home or business running smoothly as the season changes. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about your electrical system’s capacity, consult a licensed professional to ensure your system is ready for increased demand.
