thisplace.com.au - Electrical Safety

Clogged filters in clothes dryers are a known cause of house fires.
Install a safety switch to protect the power circuits in your home. It is safer to use hairdryers and other such appliances away from water.
Keep electrical appliances and leads away from pools.

Electrical Safety

Some safe electrical tasks that are safe for an adult to undertake include

changing a light bulb
fitting a new starter in a fluorescent light fitting
replacing a fuse
resetting a circuit breaker or safety switch

Of course each of these things should be approached using the proper precautions. Apart from resetting a circuit breaker or safety switch, where the electricity needs to remain on, you should always ensure the electricity is turned off before you begin.

It's also important to make your hands are dry before attempting any of these tasks. If you are in doubt, call a licensed electrical contractor.

Maintenance that might look simple, like rewiring plugs or fixing toaster elements, could be putting you or your family in danger. Doing unauthorised electrical work is simply not worth the risk.

If you are in doubt about what work is or is not safe to do yourself call ENERGEX on 13 12 53

Safety - switches and power points

Do not touch a loose, cracked or broken power point or switch. Have it repaired immediately by a licensed electrical contractor.
If there is a build up of grease, oil, dirt or moisture on or around switches and power points, ask a licensed electrical contractor to check for safety.
It is not recommended to overload a power point by 'piggy backing' plugs into one socket or by using double adaptors. Use a power board with an internal overload switch or better still, have an electrical contractor install additional power points.
Deter children playing with power points or switches. When young children are about, fit safety plugs into power points that are not being used. These are available at hardware stores and other retail outlets.

Source: Energex Home Energy Safety Tips

What to do in case of an electric shock

All shocks or tingles which occur to people when they come in contact with electrically charged items in the home, while at work or play are to be reported to your local electrical supplier immediately. If you do feel a shock or tingle, do not attempt to touch the affected article until advised to do so. Your local electricity supplier will investigate the cause of the shock. In case of serious electric shock where the injured person is unable to be freed from the electrical contact, act immediately as follows:

Turn the power off.
If this cannot be done, do not attempt to pull the person free from the electrified point with your bare hands.
Break the injured person's electrical contact by using a non-metallic material like timber, plastic or rubber eg. timber broom handle.
Once electrical contact is broken drag the person clear.
Call for help immediately or dial 000 and tell the emergency services of the situation.

Source: Energex Home Energy Safety Tips