The National Fire Protection Association reports that U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 44,800 home fires which involved electrical failure or malfunction in 2009 which resulted in 475 deaths, 1,500 injuries, and $1.6 billion in property damage. They recommend that you take the following actions to keep you and your family safe:

 

• Electrical cords that are damaged or loose need to be replaced or repaired

• Don't run extension cords across doorways or under carpet

• Make sure you have tamper resistant receptacles if you have small children

• Have additional circuits and or outlets added by a qualified electrician so you don't have to use extension cords

• Follow manufacture instructions for plugging in an appliance to a receptacle outlet

• If outlets or switches feel warm, if fuses are blown or circuits are tripped frequently, or if lights flicker or dim, call a qualified electrician.

• Make sure lamps are placed on a level surface, away from anything that can burn, be sure to use bulbs that match lamp recommendations.

• Make sure you have GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry room, basements, and outdoor areas