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May is Electrical Safety Month

Electrical fires are responsible for one in seven of all home fires in the United States every year. In an effort to raise awareness and reduce the risk of experiencing an electrical fire, May is observed as National Electrical Safety Month.

Any electrical item found in your home could cause an electrical fire. The National Fire Protection Association reports that an average of 53,000 home electrical fires are reported each year resulting in roughly 500 deaths, 1,400 injuries, and $1.5 billion in property damage. Most electrical fires can be prevented by taking simple steps around the home. For example, be sure not to overload outlets; avoid running extension cords across doorways and under carpets; shut off circuits if outlets or switches feel warm; and place lamps on level surfaces, away from other flammable items.

Fire Corps programs can assist communities in taking preventative measures to avoid electrical fires. Fire Corps teams routinely educate their communities about home safety practices. Additionally, home safety checks are conducted by many programs across the country to reduce the risk of fire or injury. A home safety checklist will be made available to all Fire Corps programs in June to assist in ensuring safe homes and communities. For more information on electrical safety, visit www.nfpa.org/electricalsafetymonth. To inquire about the home safety checklist, email the Fire Corps national office at info@firecorps.org.

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