Electrical Safety Tips For Seniors

Seniors should be in environments where they can safely live and work without electrical issues around the home. By performing small tasks that secure the safety of individuals from electrical faults, their overall wellbeing can be increased. From performing regular inspections to changing specific electrical systems, small steps can be made to protect senior citizens. 

Inspect Electrical Equipment

The electrical wiring should be checked on all appliances, fixtures and devices to look for exposed cables. If these appliances also have any noticeable defects on them then these should be addressed as soon as possible. Light switches should be looked at for any sparks, buzzing noises or issues relating to them. 

Powerpoints and outlets are also important to look at and detect potential electrical hazards. These small visual inspections of electrical appliances and systems can help with finding an error before it develops into serious consequences. 

Observe Any Electrical Warning Signs

When using electrical equipment, if specific events occur then they can indicate that there are issues. This can include noticing the lights dimmer more commonly or when the light switch is turned on. Hearing any buzzing or sizzling noises near powerpoints is another common observation people should be making. If these signs are found early then a licensed electrician can resolve the defect before major issues form. 

Read our blog ‘light switches and electrical hazards’ to know more on what to look out for with light switches. 

Keep Cords Away from Carpets and Rugs

To prevent electrical fires or people tripping, having cords under rugs and carpets is unadvised. This can include having the lamp cord under the rug to extension cords running under the carpet. There is a high risk that a person can trip if they cannot see the wire under the surface. 

Electrical fires can also start if the wires become too hot, sparks fly or if the wire has exposed cables. Even though it may not sound harmful, moving the cords away from carpets and rugs will help keep the home safer.

Limit Extension Cords and Double Adapters

The number of extension cords and double adapters used around the home should be decreased. This is because if there are too many then too much electricity is being drawn out and the chance of electrical overloading increases. Installing more powerpoints can help decrease the need for adding more double adapters and extension cords. 

Our article ‘electrical overloading – everything you need to know’ has more information on why using multiple extension cords can be dangerous. 

Install Grounding Systems

Grounding systems should be installed especially in areas where water is present, such as the bathroom or kitchen. Earthing systems will help with reducing the chance a person will be electrocuted from an electrical shock. 

If an appliance is faulty, goes near water or any other hazards occurs, the grounding system will transfer the voltage to ground instead of in the system. The power is quickly shut off if a sudden spike in voltage occurs and will be extremely important for people’s safety. 

If wanting to know more on earthing systems, our blog ‘earthing testing and installation’ offers detailed insights with the service. 

Install Surge Protectors, RCDs and Safety Switches

Surge protectors, RCD switches and safety switches all have the same role in stopping electrical spikes from causing hazards. Each will be installed depending on the building type and age of the electrical system but all have similar functions. They will work with one electrical circuit to constantly monitor for sudden voltage spikes. When this issue happens they will immediately shut off power to that specific circuit and protect people from electrical shock. 

Schedule Regular Electrical Safety Inspections

When an electrician performs inspections on electrical systems they look to see how safe they are. Any defects or problems are found and can be addressed before potentially dangerous situations occur. If an electrician performs this task regularly then it is extremely beneficial and safe. Cabling systems, appliances and the lights are some of the many systems inspected during the service. 

For more information on the best times to have electricians inspect the property, our article ‘how often should I get an electrical inspection’ provides more details.