National Electrical Safety Month 2025: Staying Safe
ResidentialMay 22, 2025
May is National Electrical Safety Month
Each year, the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) presents May as National Electrical Safety Month to promote electrical safety at home and in the workplace and reduce the number of electrically related fires and accidents.
According to the ESFI, an estimated 51,000 residential fires are caused by an electrical failure or malfunction.
This results in approximately 500 electrical fatalities and 1,400 injuries, totaling more than $1.3 billion in property damage each year.
Whether you rent or own your home, electrical safety should be a priority.
Use containers to prevent exposure or water damage when storing electrical products in garage
Indoor Electrical Safety Tips
While electricity enhances our modern conveniences, it also poses potential hazards if not managed appropriately. With these tips, we can create a living environment that prioritizes well-being and peace of mind.
Unplug appliances when not in use to save energy and reduce the risk of fire or shock
Avoid plugging too many devices into one outlet
Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or power strip
Never run cords under rugs, doors, or windows
Make sure cords aren’t a tripping hazard
Keep papers and other combustibles at least three feet away from space heaters and other heat sources.
Do not try to repair damaged extension cords
Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years
Utilize Home Safety Checklists
Simple checklists can help you identify and correct electrical and fire hazards in your home before an emergency occurs.
Check to make sure your switches and outlets are working properly
Switches and outlets should not be warm to the touch
Note any discoloration from heat buildup
Listen for unusual cracking, sizzling, or buzzing noises coming from outlets and switches
Check for loose fitting plugs which can cause overheating and fires
If you aren’t completely certain how to tackle a project involving electricity, don’t try it.
Contact a qualified electrician and leave it to the experts.
Your life, and that of your family, may depend upon it.
AEP Energy does not guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, suitability, completeness, freedom from error, or value of any information herein. The information presented is provided “as is”, “as available”, and for informational purposes only, speaks only to events or circumstances on or before the date it is presented, and should not be construed as advice, a recommendation, or a guarantee of future results. AEP Energy disclaims any and all liabilities and warranties related hereto, including any obligation to update or correct the information herein. Summaries and website links included herein (collectively, “Links”) are not under AEP Energy’s control and are provided for reference only and not for commercial purposes. AEP Energy does not endorse or approve of the Links or related information and does not provide any warranty of any kind or nature related thereto.
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Brandi Nye, Managing Director of Business Solutions
Brandi is an expert in her field with professional experience in the sustainability industry. Not only does Brandi have solid base knowledge, but she continues to grow her acumen through various learning and development experiences. Brandi is a creative and thoughtful utility professional with expertise in regulatory and utility operations.