| May is National Electrical Safety Month, and the City of Gillette is joining with the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) to raise awareness about potential home electrical hazards and the importance of electrical safety. This year’s campaign features the launch of the second edition of its National Electrical Safety Month publication, Electrical Safety Illustrated. The issue is titled “That Old House, This New Update” and informs readers about the common hazards posed by America’s aging housing stock and the variety of updates that can improve any home’s functionality, efficiency and safety.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates 47,700 home structure fires reported to U.S. fire departments each year involve some type of electrical failure or malfunction as a factor contributing to ignition. These fires result in 418 civilian deaths, 1,570 civilian injuries, and $1.4 billion in direct property damage. Awareness and education are critical to reduce the incidence of electrical fires, and ESFI sponsors National Electrical Safety Month each May to educate the public in order to reduce the number of electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss.
“Nearly half of our nation’s housing stock was built before 1970 at a time when we put significantly less stress on our electrical systems,” said Mick Wolf, Electrical Services Superintendent. “This year’s campaign encourages consumers to make sure their homes can adequately handle the demand they are putting on their electrical system to help minimize potential hazards.”
Electrical safety awareness and education among consumers, families, employees, and communities will prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. |