Safe Wiring

Make sure electricity's spark doesn't lead to disaster.

Electricity is an essential element to everyday life. It is also "one of the major causes of home fires in the country," says Jim Simmons, owner of a Mr. Electric franchise in Olympia, Washington.

according to the u.S. Consumer product Safety Commission, more than 4 ,000 home fires each year are directly linked to electrical wiring, and result in approximately 350 deaths and more than ,400 injuries. For peace of mind, have a home electrical system inspection performed by a licensed electrician. "If wiring is deteriorating inside the wall, you might not know about it," says Bob Hodge, a Mr. Electric owner in Sebring, Florida.

It is a good idea to have your wiring looked at every two to five years. Hodge notes that if a problem is found, it doesn't necessarily mean that the entire house must be rewired. The solution may be as simple as installing new switches or circuit breakers.

Have your electrical system checked when::

• Your home is more than 40 years old, or you just moved into a new home.
• You have recently renovated your home.
• You have purchased a new major appliance, such as a refrigerator, freezer, air conditioner, or electric furnace, in the last 10 years.
• Your lights often dim or flicker.
• You often trip circuit breakers or blow fuses..
• Outlets or light switches are hot to the touch or are discolored, or if you hear crackling, sizzling, or buzzing noises.
• You use extension cords or power strips throughout the house.

LINDA A. ODUM