Fire Hazard Reminders this Electrical Safety Month

May is National Electrical Safety Month, a time to spotlight simple yet vital steps that can reduce the risk of fire caused by electrical hazards. Whether at home or at work, understanding and managing common electrical risks can make all the difference in protecting people, property, and peace of mind.

Watch for Common Fire Hazards

Extension Cords & Power Strips

Extension cords are meant to be temporary—not permanent wiring solutions. Overloading a single power strip with multiple high-wattage appliances can overheat wires and ignite a fire. Plugging one extension cord into another, also known as “daisy chaining,” compounds the danger.

For example, plugging a microwave, coffee maker, and toaster into one power strip is risky, especially if the circuit can’t handle the load. Similarly, running computers, fans, and printers on a single overloaded outlet could spell disaster.

Tip: Use extension cords rated for the intended use and unplug them when not in use.

Overloaded Circuits

If lights flicker or breakers trip regularly, your circuit is likely overloaded. This can happen in areas with high energy demand, such as kitchens, workshops, or media rooms. Excessive load on an older system can quickly turn hazardous.

Tip: Consult a licensed electrician if you’re unsure about your home or facility’s capacity.

Aging or Damaged Appliances

Appliances with frayed cords, exposed wires, or damaged plugs should be replaced. Older devices may have internal wiring that’s degraded over time, increasing the risk of shorts or sparks.

Tip: If something smells like it’s burning or gets hot to the touch, unplug it immediately and investigate.

Loose Outlets & Switches

Outlets that are loose, warm, or spark when plugging something in may have internal issues. These can overheat, arc, and start a fire behind the wall without warning.

Tip: Don’t ignore buzzing or flickering—those are signs to schedule an inspection.

Don’t Forget Smoke Detectors

Electrical fires often start silently and can spread rapidly behind walls. Smoke detectors provide a critical early warning system. Test your detectors monthly, replace batteries twice a year, and ensure units are placed in key areas like bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways.

If your system is older than 10 years, it’s time to replace it. For added protection, consider interconnected smoke detectors or monitored alarm systems that alert you even when you’re away.

Be Ready for Hurricane Season

In Houston, hurricane season kicks off on June 1. Strong winds and heavy rains can bring down power lines, creating deadly hazards and potential fire risks.

If you see a downed power line:

• Stay at least 35 feet away, even if it looks inactive.

• Avoid contact with anything touching the line (trees, cars, puddles).

• Report it immediately to local authorities or your utility company.

📖 For full hurricane preparedness, read our post: Easy Ways to Prepare for Hurricane Season
🔗 And visit esfi.org for expert advice on electrical safety.

Need Help With Fire Safety?

Cultris Security Systems offers fire alarm systems, inspections, and support to help keep your property protected. Whether you’re upgrading your smoke detectors, integrating alarms into a security system, or ensuring your current setup meets code, we’re here to help.

📞 Call us at (713) 955-5470
🌐 Visit cultrissecurity.com
📧 Email info@cultrissecurity.com

Let’s keep your home and workplace safe—during Electrical Safety Month and every month.