Avoiding Electric Shocks

The Basics

Turn off the main electrical source before working near or around your homeís electrical wiring. When working with appliances, pull its plug out of the socket before lifting a single screw. After removing a component from an electrical source, let it sit for a few minutes before working on it. Even after losing the power source, some electricity may remain!

Jewelry

Take off all your metal jewelry. Metal is a powerful conductor and can get you in an accident when your skin touches a voltage source. A ring around your finger is the most likely point of danger, although other ornamentation ñ from necklaces to earrings - can also get you in trouble. Jewelry, especially hanging ones like bracelets, necklaces and earrings can also catch on to stray nails, wires and other small fixtures.

Water

Make sure you are dry before working on electrical stuff around the home. If you touch live electricity with damp skin, even low voltages can inflict serious injury. If itís hot and youíre sweating, keep a dry towel nearby to wipe it off immediately. Use the towel frequently, as well, when you get sweaty palms. Additionally, make sure the area right around you isnít wet, either with flowing drips or damp floors.

Keep One Hand In The Pocket

Keep one hand inside your pants pocket while working with the other hand. This is an old electrician trick to protect them when an accident occurs. Should the active hand touch a live wire, the zap will flow from the active hand to the ground, instead of hand-to-hand which could damage your heart.

Safety First

When electricity is involved, always put your safety first. Avoiding electric shocks, whether youíre working on small appliances or fixing electrical wires, isnít too difficult. If you take the proper precautions and follow safety procedures, you should be able to accomplish any home repair task without untoward incidents.