Electrical installations and repairs can be very dangerous to do all by yourself. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) highly recommends hiring a licensed electrician to tackle similar tasks in your home. However, if you do decide to push through with the DIY electrical project, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind.
Turn off your home’s electrical power supply
This is the first and most important step in DIY electrical repair. Before you start working on any electrical equipment or appliance in your home, always turn off the power to your house first. ESFI says that you should test the wires before touching them to ensure that the power has been turned off.
Make sure your body is dry
Electrical accidents, like electrocutions, are common when dealing with electricity. One way to reduce your risk of electrical shocks is to avoid water and keep your body dry when working near or around your electrical system. Never touch any electrical equipment or appliance with wet hands.
Wear protective equipment all the time
Another effective way that will guarantee your electrical safety is to wear protective equipment. When working with electricity, make sure to wear goggles and a pair of insulated rubber gloves all the time. Avoid touching any electrical parts with bare hands.
Use the right tools
If you will be working at height, remember to use a wooden ladder instead of a steel ladder. Wooden ladders won’t let the current pass through it, saving you from electrical shocks.
Making an effort to learn about your home electrical system will help you navigate it safely and avoid electrical hazards. However, if you feel like you can’t do the job on your own, you can always call your trusted local electricians for help. What are you waiting for? Make no delays and consult a pro today!
