Electrical safety precautions during rainy season

While the rainy season this year may seem to have arrived earlier than usual, we are very glad that the hot air has been lifted. Hence, do you ask ‘how should we carry out electrical safety precautions during this rainy season?’

Electrical safety is a system of organizational measures and technical means to prevent harmful and dangerous effects on workers/users from electric current, arcing, electromagnetic fields, and static electricity. Electrical safety precautions should be well carefully practiced especially during this rainy season.

As usual increased rainfall, thunderstorms, high winds, and flood could result in a lot of electrical accidents since water is a good conductor of electricity.

However, that informs the need for us to pay more attention to safety when dealing with electrical appliances this season.

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Some electrical safety tips in this rainy season

Now, some electrical and fire safety tips in this rainy season are discussed below:

Stay away from Flooded Areas

Everyone is advised to stay indoors or to find the closest shelter in the event of rain or storm.  But if you have to go out, it would be wise to avoid flooded areas, especially those close to heavy electrical equipment.

Stay away from power lines during a storm:

The human body is a ready conductor of electricity and as such,  It is advised that you stay at least 10 feet away from a power line and anything touching it.

The proper way to move away from the line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times. This way, it will minimize the potential for a strong electric shock.

Never leave Cut Wires astray

In the event that you have wires on the floor or lying on the road in your area, it will be wise to either contact an electrical engineer official to reconnect or safely tuck away the wires before the event of a rainstorm.

These wires may cause severe electrical hazards if they come in contact with water (provided current is flowing through the wire).

It is advised that you stay at least 10 feet away from the line and anything touching it. The human body is a ready conductor of electricity. The proper way to move away from the line is to shuffle away with small steps, keeping your feet together and on the ground at all times.

Avoid outdoor electrical tasks during rainfall

Avoid high altitudes during rainfall, as that presents a real danger of being struck by lightning – especially when climbing poles.

Never attempt electrical chores if you are not a trained engineer but if you have to, avoid doing this in the rain.

Always remember:

• To switch off the electric supply of the fire-affected areas.
• Fuses and switches should be mounted on metallic cubicles for greater safety against fire.
• To replace broken plugs and switches.
• To keep the electrical wires away from the hot and wet surfaces.
• Switch off the appliance after use and remove the plug from the socket.

Take caution when close to Water

Never touch anything electrical with wet hands or bare feet, and always use caution when operating electrical appliances near water sources and all appliances.

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Electrical fire safety tips at home

• Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.
• Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools if the guards are removed.
• Get rid of damaged extension cords.
• Contact an elec6rical engineer professional.
• Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.
• Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical incident.
• Unplug appliances when not in use.
• Use the proper wattage for lamps and lighting fixtures.
• Never run cords under carpets, rugs, doors, or windows.
• Keep electrical appliances and tools away from water.

Some general safety tips for working with or near electricity

• Inspect portable cord-and-plug connected equipment, extension cords, power bars, and electrical fittings for damage or wear before each use. Repair or replace damaged equipment immediately.
• Always tape extension cords to walls or floors when necessary. Do not use nails and staples because they can damage extension cords and cause fire and shocks.
• Use extension cords or equipment that is rated for the level of amperage or wattage that you are using.
• Always use the correct size fuse. Replacing a fuse with one of a larger size can cause excessive currents in the wiring and possibly start a fire.
• Be aware that unusually warm or hot outlets or cords may be a sign that unsafe wiring conditions exist. Unplug any cords or extension cords from these outlets and do not use them until a qualified electrician has checked the wiring.
• Always use ladders made with non-conductive side rails (e.g., fiberglass) when working with or near electricity or power lines.
• Place halogen lights away from combustible materials such as cloths or curtains. Halogen lamps can become very hot and maybe a fire hazard.
• The risk of electric shock is greater in areas that are wet or damp. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) as they will interrupt the electrical circuit before a current sufficient to cause death or serious injury occurs.
• Use a portable in-line Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) if you are not certain that the receptacle you are plugging your extension cord into is GFCI protected.
• Make sure that exposed receptacle boxes are made of non-conductive materials.
• Know where the panel and circuit breakers are located in case of an emergency.
• Label all circuit breakers and fuse boxes clearly. Each switch should be positively identified as to which outlet or appliance it is for.
• Do not use outlets or cords that have exposed wiring.
• Do not use portable cord-and-plug connected power tools if the guards are removed.
• Do not block access to panels and circuit breakers or fuse boxes.
• Do not touch a person or electrical apparatus in the event of an electrical incident. Always disconnect the power source first.

It is very, very important to have different electrical safety devices to protect from fire and electrocution. Industrial electricity use has similar problems.

Some electrical safety devices which everyone should have in his/her office or home are fuses, circuit breakers, and ground fault circuit interrupters.

Conclusion

If you know that this article has helped you know the top practicable electrical safety precautions during this rainy season, then please like our Facebook page for more important updates and remember to share it with your friends.