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Three Ways to Avoid the Unexpected at Home

National Wellness Month has many goals, but most center around staying happy, healthy, and stress-free. However, what does this entail? Spa days and trips to the doctor? Not necessarily. In honor of National Wellness Month, why not take steps to keep the home safe from avoidable hazards? 

Many people suffer injuries from fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and electrical hazards every year. Nobody wants to be a statistic. Instead, homeowners should ensure their homes and families are protected and take the following steps.

Install Smoke Detectors 

The Alabama Department of Public Health has important information about installing smoke detectors on its website. The organization notes that:

• There are two types of smoke detectors: those that run on batteries and others that connect to the home’s electrical grid with a battery backup. Both have their own pros and cons.
• How many smoke detectors a household needs depends on its layout, square footage, and occupancy.
• Homeowners can avoid placing smoke detectors in kitchens, bathrooms, or garages to prevent “nuisance alarms” or alarms that go off without there being an actual threat. 

Installing and regularly testing smoke detectors can help keep families safe from electrical fires. 

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

As the name suggests, carbon monoxide detectors detect carbon monoxide. But why is it so important to have? According to the Alabama Department of Insurance, carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can inflict fatal injuries if inhaled for long periods.

Some things to know about carbon monoxide detectors include:

• These devices should be tested regularly, around once a month, like a smoke detector, to ensure they work.
• There are two-in-one smoke and carbon monoxide detectors that can help prevent fire and carbon monoxide poisoning from affecting homeowners.
• Carbon monoxide detectors test for carbon monoxide––not natural gas. If a homeowner wants to get a natural gas detector, they must purchase a detector designed for that purpose or a two-in-one natural gas and carbon monoxide detector.

Schedule an Electrical Safety Inspection

Everyone assumes that their electrical system works fine until something goes wrong. Unfortunately, the things that can go wrong with an electrical system can cause extensive property damage, fires, and inflict injuries. To prevent this, homeowners should schedule routine electrical inspections around every two to five years, depending on the age of the home.

An electrician will inspect the home’s electrical grid, panel, and other components of the system during this process. More specifically, they will: 

• Test outlets and switches
• Ensure that outlets don’t produce too much voltage
• Replace any blown fuses
• Evaluate wires for fraying, overheating, damage, or improper installation
• Ensure the home complies with county electrical ordinances and regulations
• Test the home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Check if the home needs any more dedicated circuits.

An electrician can also advise homeowners on what measures could prevent electrical problems in the future, such as repairing outdated or damaged components. 

About Trustworthy Electric

Trustworthy Electric is a family-owned company serving Montgomery and the surrounding areas since 1994. They offer upfront pricing, on-time service, and military discounts. Call them today for electrical services in Montgomery, AL. 

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