Customer Newsletter, May 2008

Electrical Safety in an Older Home
Every year in the United States, home electrical problems account for an estimated 53,600 fires. These fires also cause more than 500 deaths, injure 1,400 people and account for $1.2 billion in property damage. Many of these fires occur in aging homes. Our dependence on electricity is on the rise, and according to the US Census Bureau, half of the homes in the United States were built prior to 1973. These homes were built before many of the electronics and appliances we use today were even invented. Unfortunately, our increasing demand for energy can overburden an older home’s electrical system and cause fire or electrocution.

If you live in an older home, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your property.

AFCI’S
Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs) are devices that replace standard circuit breakers in the electrical service panel. They detect arc faults and can shut down power to a circuit in mere milliseconds! AFCIs provide a higher level of protection than a standard circuit breaker by detecting and removing a hazardous arcing condition before it becomes a fire hazard. These devices should be installed by a licensed electrician, and tested regularly after installation.

GFCIs
GFCIs constantly monitor electricity flowing in a circuit, and if the flow going into the circuit differs even slightly from the amount returning, the GFCI will quickly shut off the current flowing through that circuit. These devices are most commonly installed in areas where electrical products can come in contact with water, such as bathrooms, kitchens and outdoors. If you have a home without GFCIs, you should consult with a qualified, licensed electrician about adding this important protection, and test them monthly.

Childproof Your Outlets
Tamper resistant outlets are standard wall outlets that feature an internal shutter mechanism that protects children from sticking objects into the receptacle. The spring-loaded shutter system in the outlet only allows electricity to flow when equal pressure is applied simultaneously to both shutters, such as when an electrical plug is inserted. When not in use, both shutters are closed and openings are covered. These devices are easy to install in older homes. They can be replaced for as little as two dollars per outlet in existing homes.

General Home Electrical Safety Checklist
Take these simple steps to identify and correct electrical dangers commonly found in homes:
  • Check the wattage of all bulbs in your lights. Are they the appropriate wattage for the size of the fixture?
  • Check all lamp cords and extension cords. Are cords placed out of walking areas and free of furniture resting on them? Are cords in good condition? If not, do not repair them yourself. Be sure you are not using extension cords for permanent house wiring. Have receptacles installed where they are needed.
  • Check all wall outlets and switches. Are they working properly? Are they cool to the touch? Do you hear crackling, sizzling or buzzing? Call a licensed electrician if you do. Replace cracked outlet and switch cover plates.
  • Check all kitchen counter top appliances. Are all cords placed away from hot surfaces? Are all appliances located away from the sink? Do appliance cords hang off counter or table tops? They are likely to catch on people passing by.
  • Check all large appliances. Have you ever received even a light shock from any large appliances? Do not touch them until they are inspected by an electrician.
  • Is the top area of your cooking range free of combustibles, such as potholders, towels or plastic materials?
  • Is there excessive vibration or movement when the washer or dryer is operating? Movement can put undue stress on electrical connections.
  • Is your portable heater placed away from things that can catch fire, such as drapes and newspapers? Relocate them away from passageways and keep all flammable materials at least three feet away.
  • Is your heater stable and placed where it will not be tipped over? Think about your pets and blowing drapes!
  • Do you leave your small appliances plugged in when not in use? Even if they are switched off, they are an electrical hazard if dropped into water. Also, check their wiring for damage.
  • Is your fuse box or circuit breaker box appropriately labeled?
  • Does everyone of appropriate age know where the fuse box or circuit breaker box is located, and how to use it?
  • Are you regularly resetting tripped circuit breakers? If so, contact a qualified, licensed electrician.
These are just a few tips for you to think about. Please take the time this month to educate your entire family about the importance of electrical safety. You can learn more about electrical safety by logging on to www.southernpd.com. Information for this story was from Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) Here are the stories you'll find inside this edition:
  • It's National Electrical Safety Month!
    • May is nationally recognized as Electrical Safety Month. More>>>
  • 2007 Annual Report: Message from CEO Hedman
    • While technically the ice storm that caused $45 million in damage to the District's electric system occurred at the end of 2006--leaving cusomters without service for up to 21 days--much of 2007 was dedicated to dealing with the aftermath of that storm. More>>>
  • Workload Update
    • In mid-April, Southern energized the new seven-mile Bertrand/Loomis subtransmission line that was recently completed in Phelps County. More>>>
  • Recipe Box: Roasted Potatoes and Red Peppers
    • A tasty twist on potatoes! More>>>