With cellphones being so popular, it’s important to be aware of several safety precautions local Fire Departments believe can prevent fires and save your family from injury or death. Did you know these common practices are ones it is important to warn our family about: using cellphones or charging them near flammables, charging with damaged cords, charging too close to overloaded electrical outlets or water sources.There are several simple steps you can take to safeguard your loved ones.
First, do not use your cellphone at a gas station. This is because the conditions near large amounts of highly flammable gasoline could create fires, or in some cases an explosion. Even having the device on, can cause unsafe static electricity. In a place full of gasoline, just a small spark can quickly create very dangerous flames.
Another key tip is to not allow children to charge their cellphones in their bedrooms. In addition to reducing the temptation to use their device in the middle of the night, it also keeps them from doing a common but highly hazardous practice- charging their phone near paper, carpet, bedding or curtains. Recently social media has posted charred bedding photos. In some cases children had chosen to charge their phone under their pillow and the high heat generated from the charger could not dissipate & created the flame. Also sometimes teens carry their chargers with them and do not notice the cord shave frayed. Using damaged chargers is also linked to preventable fires.
Third, be cautious of charging too many electric devices in the same outlet or power cord. Many preventable fires have been linked to overloading circuits and creating electrical fires. An easy way to remedy this is to have each person in the house charge their device in a separate area that is not close to flammable materials. Examples of safe areas to charge include on countertops. It is also key that the counter top long be a safe distance from sinks or bathtubs to reduce risk of electrocution. Figure out a plan of where each electronic device will be charged, and set up your charging stations so they are safe. This could be the most important Back to School tip yet. The Law Offices of Konrad Sherinian cares about your safety. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident or by medical malpractice call us at (630) 318-2606.