Appliance Safety 101: How to Identify and Resolve Common Home Appliance Hazards
Appliance Safety 101: How to Identify and Resolve Common Home Appliance Hazards
07/20/2023
Home appliances make our lives so much easier and more convenient, but they can also be a safety hazard if they’re not used or maintained properly. Every year, thousands of people are injured or even killed due to home appliance accidents. To prevent these accidents from happening, it’s important to know how to identify and resolve common appliance hazards. Learn more about some tips on keeping your appliances in good working order and ensuring your home is a safe place.
Electrical Hazards
One of the most common hazards associated with home appliances is electrical shock or electrocution. Electrical hazards can be caused by faulty wiring, damaged electrical cords, and incorrect use of electrical devices. To prevent electrical hazards, make sure to:
- Check the electrical cords for signs of wear and tear, and replace them if necessary.
- Don’t use appliances with frayed or damaged cords.
- Don’t overload electrical outlets.
- Keep appliances away from water or other liquids.
Fire Hazards
Another common appliance hazard is fire. Appliances can cause fires if they’re not used or maintained properly. Common causes of appliance-related fires include:
- Overheating due to lack of maintenance or improper use.
- Poor ventilation.
- Flammable materials are stored too close to the appliance.
To prevent appliance-related fires, make sure to:
- Keep appliances clean and well-maintained.
- Use appliances according to instructions.
- Don’t leave appliances running unattended.
- Keep flammable materials away from appliances.
- Install a smoke detector, especially near bedrooms.
Gas Leaks
Gas appliances like stoves, ovens, and water heaters can pose a severe hazard if they leak gas. Gas leaks can cause explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. To prevent gas leaks, make sure to:
- Have gas appliances installed and serviced by a professional.
- Don’t use a gas appliance if you smell gas. Open windows, leave the area, and call a professional.
- Use a carbon monoxide detector near any gas appliance.
Tip-over Hazards
Some appliances can tip over if they’re not balanced or secured properly. This can be especially dangerous if the appliance is heavy or has sharp edges. To prevent tip-over hazards, make sure to:
- Keep appliances on a flat and stable surface.
- Secure any appliance that can be easily tipped over, like a microwave on a rolling cart.
- Store heavy appliances on the lowest shelves or in cabinets.
Our home appliances are crucial to our daily lives, but we must remember how important it is to be safe around them. We hope our tips on identifying and resolving common home appliance hazards provide some valuable information to keep your home and loved ones safe. Regular maintenance and following proper use instructions can greatly decrease the chances of appliance-related accidents. Contact us at Command Service Center to take care of your appliance. Keeping safety first and staying mindful of how we use our trusty appliances is key to maintaining a secure home.