Electrical Safety for Back-to-School: Home Circuit Checks Every Parent Should Do

As the back-to-school season ramps up, families find themselves juggling busy mornings, homework-filled evenings, and a surge in plugged-in devices. Ensuring your home’s electrical system is safe and efficient is essential for protecting your children and giving you peace of mind. Here’s a practical guide to home circuit checks every parent should do—brought to you by B. Jags Electric, your trusted electrical contractor.

With laptops, tablets, and kitchen appliances running overtime, your home’s electrical load increases significantly during the school year. Overloaded circuits, outdated outlets, and neglected safety devices can pose serious risks, including electrical shocks and fire hazards.

1. Inspect Outlets and Power Strips

• Check for Damage: Look for frayed cords, cracked outlets, or scorch marks. Replace any damaged components immediately.
• Avoid Overloading: Don’t plug too many devices into a single outlet or power strip, especially in homework areas. Use power strips with surge protection to safeguard electronics.
• Upgrade to USB Outlets: Modern USB outlets reduce clutter and make charging devices safer and more convenient.

2. Test GFCI Outlets

• Where to Check: Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms should have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets to prevent shocks.
• How to Test: Plug in a nightlight, press the “test” button (the light should turn off), then press “reset” (the light should turn back on). If it doesn’t, contact electrical contractors near you for an inspection.

3. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

• Test Regularly: Press the test button on all detectors to ensure they’re working. Replace batteries if you can’t remember the last time you did.
• Placement: Make sure detectors are installed in hallways, bedrooms, and near kitchens.

4. Extension Cord Safety

• Temporary Use Only: Extension cords are for short-term use. Never daisy-chain (connect multiple cords together), and avoid running cords under rugs or furniture.
• Tidy Up: Keep cords and chargers organized and out of walkways to prevent tripping hazards.

5. Schedule a Professional Electrical Safety Inspection

A licensed electrician can identify hidden hazards, test your home’s circuits, and recommend upgrades to keep your family safe. If you’re searching for “reliable electrical contractors near me”, B. Jags Electric offers comprehensive inspections and electrical solutions tailored for busy households.

• Teach Electrical Safety: Remind children never to insert objects into outlets and to unplug devices when not in use.
• Emergency Preparedness: Post emergency numbers in a visible spot and walk through your home’s safety plan as a family.

If you notice flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, or outlets that feel warm to the touch, it’s time to contact electrical contractors near you. B. Jags Electric is here to help you prepare your home for a safe, efficient, and productive school year.

Protect your family this back-to-school season—schedule your home circuit check with B. Jags Electric, your trusted electrical contractor.