Smoke detectors
In order to ensure that your smoke alarms are working as they should, it is important to perform regular testing and cleaning. Some of the regular maintenance that should be performed on smoke detectors and alarms are:
Replacing the Battery in your Smoke Detector
Your smoke alarms battery may need to be replace every year. When the batteries are low the smoke detector will chirp or beep every few minutes. Not all smoke detectors have replaceable batteries.
Protecting Your Smoke Alarm from Infestations
Using a surface insect spray around each of the smoke alarms in your home can be a good way to help prevent insects from nesting inside; however, when spraying around smoke alarms, make sure they are covered to prevent spraying inside of them.
Testing Your Smoke Alarm
Each smoke alarm should be tested once every month to ensure that the battery is not dead and that the alarm is operating properly. To test your smoke alarm, hold down the test button until you hear a loud beep or chirping.
Extension Cords
The purpose of extension cords is for temporary use. Typically extension cords are used to provide electricity to a small appliance in a specific area in or outside the home for a short duration of time. Unfortunately, it’s become the quick and easy solution where these cords are more frequently used and as a permanent fix. Extension cords are not designed for long term or big electrical load use. Many appliances warn the use of extension cords to protect from damage as these cords typically can’t handle the appliance’s electrical load. Cheaply made extension cords can cause fire hazards (by overloading that leads to overheating). What’s the best solution? Have a licensed electrician install another outlet where needed
Water and Electricity
Electricity and water is a dangerous combination. Most people know the importance to keep away from mixing the 2, but unfortunately many people still reach for their electric razors and other electric grooming tools with wet hands or while still in the shower. Luckily, new homes today typically come with GFCI outlets.
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is an electrical device installed to protect against severe electric shocks. GFCI’s could also reduce electrocutions and minimize electrical burns and shock injuries. A GFCI integrates a ground fault protection in receptacles where electrical equipment is near water or might be in contact with water.
If your home is however older, it may not have GFCI’s. Consider having GFCI’s installed by a qualified electrician. Ensure your hands are dry when unplugging anything electric and avoid the use of all electrical tools while near or in water (bath, sinks, pools etc.). Call a licensed electrician to come to your home and access your outlets and install GFCI receptacles where needed
