Electrical outlets and appliances are present in most homes. While they are necessary for many daily tasks, it is also important to be aware of the safety risks they present. February is Electrical Safety Awareness Month, which makes it a good time to review some tips to keep your family safe.

Use safety plugs in outlets.

Cover unused electrical outlets with safety plugs that are not a choking hazard to small children. These safety plugs stop young children from being able to stick their fingers or other items into the outlet, which could cause an electric shock.

Do not plug too many appliances into one outlet.

An outlet can become overloaded if too many items are trying to use power from it. You should only plug one large appliance, such as a refrigerator or dryer, into an outlet at a time. If you are worried that the outlet is becoming hot, schedule an appointment with a licensed electrician to review your home’s electrical circuit.

Check electrical cords for damage.

Damaged cords can cause electrical shock and fires. Check your cords regularly for signs of damage. If you notice that an electrical cord is fraying or cracking, replace it right away.

Keep electrical appliances away from water.

Water and electricity do not mix. If an electrical appliance gets wet, it can cause an electrical shock. Make sure your appliances are dry and kept away from water sources. This is especially important in places like the kitchen or bathroom, where water is frequently used.

Following these tips will lower the risk of injury from electrical accidents.

If you are concerned about any outlets or appliances in your home, talk to a licensed electrician.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

In case of a fire emergency, please call 9-1-1 immediately. For serious burns, go directly to an emergency nearest to you. For non-emergent situations, Bingham Healthcare has an urgent care at the following location:

Blackfoot

1st Choice Urgent Care & Family Medicine
Riverside Plaza (across the street from McDonald’s)
1350 Parkway Dr.
Blackfoot, ID 83221
P: (208) 782-2410

Hours:

Mon. to Fri.: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sat. & Sun.: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

No appointment necessary.

Ammon/Idaho Falls
Ammon Medical & Urgent Care
(just before Ammon Rd.)
3456 E. 17th St., Suite 125
Ammon, ID 83406
P: (208) 529-2828

Hours:

Mon. to Fri.: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sat. & Sun.: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

No appointment necessary.

Pocatello

1st Choice Urgent Care – Bannock Highway
1595 Bannock Highway
Pocatello, ID 83204
(208) 239-6511

Hours of Operation

Mon. to Fri.: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Sat. & Sun.: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

No appointment necessary. 

Source: https://communityhealth.mayoclinic.org/

Our content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.