BEYOND THE HEDGES: NESF warns students to be careful with electricity

With many students returning to college, the potential for electrical fires and electrocutions increases. According to the National Electrical Safety Foundation, over 160,900 electrical fires claim more than 800 human lives, cause 7,660 injuries and cost $1.4 billion in personal property damage annually. Additionally, the NESF reports one person is electrocuted in the home every 16 hours.

The NESF recommends the following precautions to prevent electricity-related injuries and property loss:

* Use extension cords only on a temporary basis, not as permanent wiring.

* Don't run electric cords under rugs or carpets. The cords can overheat causing a fire.

* Don't overload outlets. Doing so can blow a fuse or a circuit breaker. Overloaded outlets or extension cords could also cause a fire.

* Purchase approved surge suppressers for your computer and entertainment systems. They help protect your electronics from voltage surges.

* Never force a plug into an outlet if it doesn't fit. Never cut the third prong.

* Don't use appliances that have frayed, cut or damaged cords. They could cause a shock or fire.

Source: NESF, September1996 .

This item appeared in the News section of the September 20, 1996 issue.

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