In the morning, your alarm wouldn’t go off, so you'd oversleep for work. You wouldn’t be able to make your morning coffee, and you’d have to shower with cold water. In the afternoon, you wouldn’t be able to watch your favourite TV shows. And since you couldn’t charge your phone, you wouldn’t know what’s new on social media. Without a microwave, your dinner would be cold leftovers from the fridge, which by then would have defrosted. And you'd be reading a book by candlelight in bed.
An essential part of our homes
It’s clear that electricity is absolutely indispensable to all of us. Without it, we would face great inconvenience and limitations in our daily lives. We need it constantly, whether it’s for lighting, heating, cleaning, cooking, entertainment, or communication.
Electric current is invisible, silent, and odourless, but it can kill. That’s why it’s important to always be careful and follow safety rules, as improper handling can lead to accidents. Here are a few tips on how to act at home to avoid dangerous situations:
- Don’t touch electrical appliances with wet hands – water and electricity don’t mix.
- Never use electrical appliances in damp environments.
- It’s dangerous to stand barefoot on wet tiles while holding an electrical device (like a hairdryer).
- Regularly check cables and sockets – if they are damaged, they can be hazardous.
- Protect electrical sockets from damage and moisture. Never spray any liquid on them or wipe them with a damp cloth during cleaning.
- Electrical sockets are only for appliance plugs. Never stick your fingers or other objects (like a screwdriver) into them.
- Don’t overload sockets – plugging too many devices into one socket can cause overheating.
- Turn off appliances when not in use – this not only saves energy but also reduces the risk of fire.
- Many fires are caused by unattended irons, space heaters, stoves, or electric kettles left on.
- Never unplug an appliance by pulling on the power cord.
- Fit all sockets with safety covers.
- Ensure children stay away from operating electrical appliances.
- Don’t repair electrical equipment yourself unless you’re a professional – if something doesn’t work, contact an electrician.
- Don’t tamper with or disassemble appliances that are plugged into the electrical network.
- Never touch the inside of televisions or radios – some parts still carry a charge even when switched off!
By following these simple rules, you can avoid accidents and enjoy a safe home. After all, electricity is a good servant but a bad master.