Youth Safety
e-SMART Kids
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Electrical Safety Tips
When hooking up computers, appliances, game consoles and other electronics, it pays to be safe. Know what electrical hazards to look for and how to address them.
Protect yourself from injury and keep electronics running safely by following these tips:
- Use only approved electrical products that have a recognized Canadian approval mark.
- Choose power bars with a heavy-gauge cord and surge protector.
- Replace frayed or damaged extension cords with new ones.
- Keep extension cords out from under carpet, rugs or furniture as this could damage the cord and present a fire hazard.
- Keep flammable materials such as books, paper and clothing away from heaters, stoves and other heating sources.
- Never leave cooking appliances unattended.
- Plug portable heaters and air conditioners directly into an outlet. If you need to use an extension cord, only use one rated for this purpose to ensure the cord can handle the electrical current. This prevents overheating and risk of fire.
- Never remove the third prong from an electrical product; it is the grounding device and is a critical safety feature.
- Avoid overloading outlets or circuits as this may cause overheating and lead to fire.
Renting Off-campus Accommodations
Every fall, thousands of students move away from home to attend university or college in Ontario.
Have the property owner correct any electrical hazards before you move in, like the following:
- Exposed electrical wiring.
- Loose or damaged plugs and switches, or outlets and switches with missing cover plates.
- Dim, flickering or surging lights.
- Fuses that blow or circuit breakers that frequently trip, or outlets that don't work when fuses are replaced, or breakers reset.
- Fuses and switches that are warm or hot to the touch.