Did someone say long weekend? The Easter holidays are upon us, which means Easter egg hunts, family time and some long distance driving could be on the cards for many of us.

With all the traveling and festivities during the holiday time, the last thing you need is an emergency that will not only change your plans but also set you back financially.

DON’T DO IT

Many people now turn to Google or YouTube to search for DIY tips. But you need to make sure you’re getting guidance from a reputable source. Any electrical work needs to be undertaken by a competent electrician.

“Get advice from a registered electrician. The best way to avoid any electrical problems in the home is to seek the advice of a professional. If you’re not sure, don’t DIY”

Do not charge laptops or mobile phones on beds & sofas

Doing so constitutes to a fire risk as the battery heats up during charging which could set fire to beddings and fabrics. It is also important to unplug chargers when they are not in use. It is also important to not mix chargers – make sure to use the charger supplied with the electrical device in order to minimise fire risk.

Don’t “daisy chain” extension cords

Simply put: if your device cable doesn’t reach, don’t be tempted to extend it by using multiple extension cords. It is always safer to move your device closer and actually plugged it in directly into a permanent socket outlet. 

Inspect Electrics For Damage

Before you use electrical tools, use outlets you haven’t used all winter, or getting out cords, check them for damage before you use them. If they are broken, are discolored, or have frayed wires, pitch them and get new ones. This includes checking your fuse box to make sure the fuses haven’t become discolored or melted and replacing those fuses.

Decorate safely

If you are planning to decorate, start by cleaning and inspecting all your tools and equipment. Once you locate all the parts, you can assemble them yourself or with the help of others.

Never use accessories, cords, lighting sources, and other equipment that are old and damaged. Do not overload the electrical outlets and cables, and all-out electronics should be plugged in a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFI). It serves as extra protection for electrical problems.

When choosing Easter decorations, always opt for items with non-flammable materials.

Fire Hazards

It is easier to get careless when you are caught up celebrating and having a good time with your family and friends. To avoid fire burning up your home, avoid using charcoal and gasoline-fuelled devices indoors. Never leave any source unattended that can result in fires. Most importantly, be sure to check all smoke alarms to see if any batteries need to be replaced. And if you have Smart smoke alarm systems, make sure they are showing up properly on the system, or if they need to be reconnected to the network and router, and that the app has the latest updates done and doesn’t need to be re-logged back in.

Outdoor dangers

Before hiding the Easter eggs, walk through the surrounding area and remove hazardous items like sharp garden tools, hoses, and chemicals. If you have small children in your household, create boundaries to keep them from wandering too far. Hide the eggs in areas that are safe and away from hazards, such as wild animals, lawn chemicals, and other hazardous items.

If you are worried about everyone’s safety, consider playing alternative Easter games. Organize a hide and seek, an Easter egg spoon race, pin the tail on the Easter bunny, and a safer Easter egg hunt.

Both children and adults look forward to Easter activities every spring. By following these Easter safety tips, you can host a fun, safe, and memorable Easter Sunday for you and your loved ones.

While our office may be closed during the weekend, our 24/7 emergency support services will still be available should you need them. Just call our hotline at 608.847.6209 and we will Hop right over!

Happy Easter everyone!