Useful Tips

Gas Home Safety Tips

In the event that you discover a gas leak, you should follow these steps below;

• Turn off the gas supply immediately at the meter/emergency control valve.
• Entinguish all sources of ignition.
• Ensure no one smokes.
• Ensure that no one operates electric light or power switches. (on or off)
• Ventilate the buildings(s) by opening all doors and windows.
• Ensure access to the premises can be made for the appropriate party to rectify the leak.

Electrical Home Safety Tips

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from accident or injury:

• Make sure cords are in good condition - not frayed or cracked. Make sure they are placed out of traffic areas. Cords should never be nailed or stapled to the wall, baseboard or to any object. Do not place cords under carpets, or rugs or rest any furniture on them.
• Make sure extension leads are not overloaded. Extension leads should only be used on a temporary basis; they are not intended as permanent household wiring. Make sure extension leads have safety closures to help prevent young children from shock hazard mouth burn injuries.
• Make sure your plugs fit your outlets as this could lead to an electrical shock. Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn't fit. Plugs should fit securely into outlets. Avoid overloading circuits with too many appliances.
• Check the wattage of all the light bulbs in light fixtures to make sure they are the correct wattage for the size of the fixture. Replace bulbs that have higher wattage than recommended. If you don't know the correct wattage, check with the manufacturer of the fixture.
• Dim or flickering lights, arcs or sparks, sizzling or buzzing sounds from your electrical system, odors, hot switch plates, loose plugs and damaged insulation are signs of potential hazards and should be looked at by a licensed electrician.
• If your home is more than 40 years old, renovated recently or had the addition of a major new appliance such as a refrigerator or electric fire, you should have a qualified licensed electrician inspect your home's electrical system to ensure the circuits are not overloaded and the electrical service can adequately supply the demand. Electrical inspections can catch problems hidden behind the walls and correct them before they turn tragic.