Have all electrical work done by a licensed electrician.
Only use one heat-producing appliance (such as a coffee maker, toaster, space heater, etc.) plugged into a receptacle outlet at a time. This prevents you from overloading the circuit.
Major appliances (refrigerators, dryers, washers, stoves, air conditioners, microwave ovens, etc.) should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet and have their own circuit. Extension cords and plug strips should never be used.
Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) shut off electricity when a dangerous condition occurs. Consider having them installed in your home.
Use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off an electrical circuit when it becomes a shock hazard. They should be installed inside the home in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and basements. All outdoor receptacles should be GFCI protected.
Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You do not need a flame to start a fire. Fires can start when heat builds up near things that can burn. This can happen when a hot light bulb is near items that burn, such as cloth or paper, or a cord has been placed under a carpet.
Check electrical cords to make sure they are not running across doorways or under carpets. Extension cords are intended for temporary use. Have a licensed electrician add more receptacle outlets so you don’t have to use extension cords.
Use a light bulb with the correct wattage. There should be a sticker on fixtures that indicates the right number of watts to use.
Call a licensed electrician or your landlord if you have:
Frequent problems with blowing fuses or tripping circuit breakers.
A tingling feeling when you touch an electrical appliance.
Discolored or warm wall outlets.
A burning or rubbery smell coming from an appliance.
