Electrical usage tends to increase during the last quarter of the year. West Virginia winters can be brutal, causing many to retreat into the warmth and comfort of their homes. The increased electrical usage, which usually includes holiday decorations, means being more vigilant about when and how you use electrical items. Awareness of winter safety tips can help you be and feel safer throughout the frigid West Virginia winter days.

Use Space Heaters Safely

Many West Virginians use space heaters to warm up certain areas of their homes. While they’re great for adding warmth, they can also be dangerous when misused and/or if accidents happen. If you’re planning on using one in your home this winter, there are several tips you’ll want to keep in mind.

One of the most important things is to never leave your space heater unattended or on while you’re sleeping. It could tip over, especially if you have animals, and start a fire. Where you put it also matters. It shouldn’t be on or near anything flammable, including on wood or carpeting or in front of curtains or couches. The heat alone may cause objects to catch on fire.

Pets and children shouldn’t be near a space heater. It can take seconds for them to accidentally knock it over.

If you plan to run a space heater you’ve previously used, evaluate its condition before plugging it in. Check that the wires aren’t frayed, that there’s no flammable material stuck in them, and that they didn’t somehow get wet.

Practice Safe Holiday Light Usage

Holiday lights are fantastic, but not so much if they cause a fire. Make sure you’re using only UL-certified holiday lights, which you can easily identify by the packaging or the light tag itself.

Don’t use new or used lights that look like they’ve been damaged. For example, if they appear to have water damage, mold, or cracks or if the wires are frayed, forgo those lights in favor of ones in excellent condition. It’s also important not to have the lights on when no one is home or if you’re sleeping.

Check on Your Flammable Items

Check where your flammable items are throughout your home. It can be easy to lose track of them during the warmer months while you were tackling various projects. Some items you’ll want to look for include spray paint, gallons of paint, and furniture varnish. Put them in a safe place where they can’t accidentally catch on fire. If you no longer need them, contact your local government to learn how to dispose of them properly.

Evaluate the Placement of Furniture and Furnishings

Walk through your home, and check on the placement of your furniture and furnishings. They shouldn’t be on or near any heating sources, including registers and space heaters. Depending on the length of your curtains or drapes, you may want to swap them out for shorter options if they’re hanging on or near a heating source.

Use an Electric Blanket Carefully

One of the biggest pleasures during a chilly West Virginia winter is curling up in an electric blanket. Unfortunately, because they’re electric, they’re also a fire hazard and must be used correctly. Proper use ensures you can still have cozy moments without risking your home or life.

Before using the electric blanket, evaluate its condition. This is important even if you recently used it. If you have pets in the house, one of the animals might have chewed the cord, and if you have kids, they might have bent the wire in an unnatural way and caused the wires to show. It also shouldn’t be near any water sources, even if it’s a glass of water.

Like the holiday lights, the electric blanket should have a UL tag to guarantee it meets safety standards. Never fall asleep with the blanket still on, even if it has an auto shut-off function.

Many people may not be aware that it’s not a good idea to use electric blankets on all bed types. For example, if you have an adjustable bed, you may want to stick to using the electric blanket only on the couch. Review the owner’s manual, which typically states the types of beds that should be avoided with it.

Don’t Give Pets Warming Devices for Humans

It’s understandable that you love your pet so much that you want to give them a warming device so they stay happy and cozy during a cold West Virginia winter. However, make sure you’re only giving them items designed for pets and not humans. Ones that are made for pets meet certain safety standards that make them safe for animals to use, such as only going up to a certain temperature and having puncture-resistant material. Giving them heated blankets designed for humans could result in your furry friend getting hurt or worse.

Don’t Overload Power Strips and Outlets

It’s easy to overload an outlet and power strips, especially if you’re focused on achieving a specific task during the winter, such as setting up your new entertainment system or holiday display. However, doing so is a potential fire risk.

It’s essential to know how much voltage each outlet and power strip can handle and the corresponding circuit breaker. Once you know that information, evaluate the wattage of the devices you want to plug in. If you’re unsure, go with the less-is-more approach for safety purposes. If your home can’t handle the voltage, you need to upgrade your electrical panel or other components to accommodate the load.

Keep Cords Dry

Keeping cords dry is crucial to preventing electrical dangers during the winter. For instance, avoid having any cords near where people take off their wet, snow-covered snow boots, and keep cords far from your water-filled Christmas tree stand.

Check Your Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Doing an electrical safety check around your West Virginia home should also include evaluating that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly. If you can’t reach them or if you’re unsure about how to check, contact your local fire department, which may be able to have someone come out and assist you at no cost.

Check for Recalls

If you’re among the many West Virginians who get electrical gifts for the holidays, research them before using them. Check online and ensure there haven’t been any recalls on the item you were given. You can typically find this information on the manufacturer’s website or do a simple internet search of your item plus the word “recall” after it. It’s important to do even if you received the item in brand-new condition.

Don’t Use Indoor Electrical Decor and Cords Outside

One big mistake some people make is using indoor decor and cords outside their West Virginia home. These items are only meant for use inside, where they won’t get wet and aren’t exposed to rain and snow. Using them outdoors poses a fire risk. Make sure you’re only using outdoor lights and decor for your outdoor displays.

Practicing proper electrical safety tips this winter at your West Virginia home can increase the chances of having a warm and safe season. Contact Childers Air Plumbing & Electric in Beckley if you want to schedule an electrical safety inspection. Additional electrical services are available, including rewiring, installing electrical outlets, home energy audits, electrical panel upgrades, and generator installation.

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