Here are some safety tips for all to follow. Many people suffer electrical burns and even death from not respecting what electricity can do to them. We at H. Giudici & Son hope these tips help you and your family live more safely.

Respect Electricity

Shocks occur when electric current is conducted through your body to the ground. The human body is not a good conductor of electricity in itself; and water changes that equation dramatically. Keep electrical appliances and their wires away from water.

Buy electrical products, preferably double-insulated, approved by a recognized testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratories.

Plug in portable appliances only when you intend to use them, and remember to unplug them when you are finished.

Unplug any appliance that sparks, stalls, gives off a shock, blows a fuse or trips the circuit breaker. Replace it or have it repaired.

A tripped circuit or blown fuse also could indicate: -too many electrical appliances or tools are plugged into the circuit. -defective wiring on the circuit.

Learn how to change fuses or reset circuit breakers. Teach other adults in the family.

Don't attempt to use a 2-slot outlet for appliances with 3-pronged plug. Use an adaptor with a grounding tab.

Always turn off the switch and unplug the lamp when replacing a light bulb, and never touch the metal base while inserting or removing light bulbs.

To protect children, cover unused wall outlets with safety caps or special covers. (Available at most hardware stores and very inexpensive)

Allow space for air to circulate around home entertainment equipment, computers and other electronic equipment

Cords and Cables

Never use a cord that is hot or very warm to the touch when in use. Cords should not run over objects that become hot or under rugs. The insulation might crack.

Do not coil an electrical cord when in use.

Unplug extension cords not in use. The unplugged end in a child's wet mouth can lead to death or serious injury.

Call in an expert for work around power lines, and have trees trimmed so they don't touch power lines.

Some power cables are buried underground. Before doing any digging call your utility company (LIPA here on Long Island) for "Buried Utility Locations".

Rely on the GFCI

Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) where appliances will be used near water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, garage or basement, or when you're using power tools outdoors. The inexpensive GFCI is designed to protect the body from severe or lethal shocks by switching off the power to any malfunctioning circuit. Properly installed GFCIs could prevent nearly two-thirds of electrocutions that occur each year. Test the GFCI monthly by following the instructions included with the product.

When Someone is Shocked…

Do not touch them if they are still in contact with the electrical source. You could be shocked, too.

Immediately turn off the power and get help.

Don't take chances with electricity. If you have any doubts, call in a professional electrician.