Electricity And Technology Effects On Our Lives

Electricity has become the driving force in every up to date technological design and appliance that we're using these days. But, however useful electricity is, there remains to be quite a sizeable incidence of electricity-related mishaps throughout the globe. Every day, electrical accidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying levels and worst of all, loss of life due to electrical faults.

Why is Electricity so Dangerous?

Overhead power lines which transport about 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers include "live" components that are hazardous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for example could potentially damage them, therefore producing an electric shock. Electricity every time will achieve the shortest way to the earth. It will seek any good conductor that it can pass through to get to the ground. As your body is about 70% water, it instantly will become a good conductor of electricity. If you touch a live wire whilst your feet are touching the earth, electricity will pass through your body to get to the ground creating an electric shock that can be injurious or even fatal.

Electric current can also generate extensive burns inside your body. The lung and heart muscles can also be affected by electric shock. Direct current (DC) can make muscles against your will contract whilst alternating current (AC) can cause the heart to fibrillate.

Power lines are not the only cables that can injure you if you make contact to them. Home electrical appliances and wires also have the capability to harm you if you do not know how to take precautions. December is the most hazardous month in terms of electrical fires. This is because there are more indoor activities through this month that cause a rise inthe need for lighting, heating and appliance usage.

Electrical Safety Tips.

A number of electricity-related accidents can be avoided by observing simple safety tips in the house. It is essential that you educate the children about following and using electrical safety measures.

Electrical Sockets and Cables.

Check plug sockets for loose fitting plugs which could overheat and cause a fire. If wall plates are missing or damaged be sure to replace them. If there are kids in the home, cover all wall outlets as a safety precaution and tell your children not to play around the sockets. If possible, cover wall outlets or sockets with home furniture.

See to it that cables are in good condition and not threadbare or worn. Cables must not be nailed against walls or positioned under heavy fitted carpet. Donot put any furnishings on top of them. If you are using extension cables, make sure that they are not overloaded. Extension cables ought to only be used on a brief basis only. When unplugging cables remember to pull the plug from the outlet and not the cable itself.

Electrical Appliances.

All unused equipment have to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young children, pets. Be sure that devices that create heat have some clearance all around for cooling and air flow. When using appliances follow instructions and do not carry out repairs that you are not trained to do. It is best to keep all electrical devices away from locations where water is present such as sinks, lavatories, swimming pools, tubs or any overhead vents that may drip. Remember not to operate electrical appliances with wet hands or while standing in water. If you have radiators, heating vents or space heaters, keep away articles of clothing, toys, curtains or any flammable materials.

Outdoor Electrical Safety.

It has long been seen that some people wrongly elect to use electric lawn mowers or equipment when it is raining or when the grass is wet. Stop! You will only electricute yourself.

If there are parts of a tree that are near the power lines, make sure you trim them. If you cannot do it, call the local tree surgeon and ask for help in pruning the tree. Stay away from power lines when you are flying kites or model airplanes. If there is an electrical storm (lightning) do not swim or play near water. If you see a power line that is down, do not touch it, even if you think it's not "live". Call the proper establishment.

I have always had all of the properties that I own maintained by the same company, they go by the name of Electrician London. Over the years they have saved me plenty of money, just by giving me some very useful advise and help.