Did You Know?

“While the number of accidental electrocutions in the home has diminished significantly over the years, the greater hazard of electrical related fires has shown no definitive trend up or down,” says Michael G. Clendenin.

“According to the latest statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there is an annual average of 111,400 home fires caused by faulty electrical distribution systems, electrical appliances, or heating and air conditioning systems. On average, these faulty fires are taking 860 lives, injuring 3,785, and causing nearly $1.3 billion in property damage. More from Michael G. Clendenin, the executive director for the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI). ESFI is North America’s only non-profit dedicated to the promotion of electrical safety.

Never Use Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring

Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have a power outlet. Keep power cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock. Do not allow vehicles to pass over unprotected power cords.

For more details, visit Canada’s National Occupational Health & Safety Resource.

Ring Electric Inc. Can Test Your Wiring

If you are unsure about your electrical safety, especially if you have that odd feeling that you would like to have it checked, please do not hesitate to Contact Us. We will perform an inspection and then you can be certain of your safety. It is much better to be safe than sorry and it is only one simple step.

What you should know – is you can make a difference in ensuring the safety of your home and family by:

Following basic electrical safety tips.
Ensuring you research electrical projects.
Using the services of licensed electrical contractors.
Ensuring you arrange for electrical inspections if you are concerned about your Ottawa home’s electrical system, or if you are doing electrical work.

Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance companies are contacting homeowners in Ottawa that have dated electrical circuits and insisting that the circuits be upgraded. Please be sure that your insurance policy covers your existing electrical circuitry. Contact Us for details.

Don’t use extension cords to compensate for inadequate home wiring. Use extension cords only when necessary and only on a temporary basis. To ensure safety, if a cord feels hot to the touch, stop using it and throw it away.