Electrical Safety Foundation International

A common source of power surges inside a building are devices that switch power on and off. Damages caused by power surges are a leading cause of electrical equipment failure. Installing surge protective devices will protect against electrical failures to maintain the reliability and operation of electrical equipment. Surge protective devices protect against downtime, improve system and data reliability, and reduce electrical failures.

Working with electricity is extremely dangerous, so it's important to always hire qualified electrical workers to complete those jobs. Avoid electrical rooms and other potentially hazardous areas. Always look up before performing a task outside to avoid power lines. Avoid catastrophe by knowing when to say when. If you feel unsafe performing a job, STOP and say something.

ESFI recently surveyed building owners and managers to gauge their understanding of EVs and the safe installation of EVSE. The goal of the survey was to identify safety gaps related to emerging technology to keep consumers, installers, and businesses safe. The survey results showed that over 91% of building owners had a site inspection conducted before installing EVSE: https://lnkd.in/gzsJ4zRU

When preparing your Thanksgiving meal next week, keep anything that can catch fire away from your stovetop. Prevent fires by keeping your oven and stovetop clean of grease and dust. Never leave the kitchen while cooking, and double-check that everything is off when you finish cooking.

Today is Utility Scams Awareness Day. The purpose of the campaign is to help educate consumers about how to spot and prevent utility scams. As imposter scams targeting utility customers become more advanced and harder to detect, it’s imperative to educate consumers of all ages about how to avoid them. Learn how to stop scams: https://lnkd.in/gdRuqXGn

40% of all electrical accidents on the job site are caused by overhead power lines. Most of those incidents involve non-electrical workers. When on the job site, remember to always look up in all ways.

It's #NationalApprenticeshipWeek. This nationwide celebration highlights the successes and value of apprenticeships. By joining a free apprenticeship program by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), or the Independent Electrical Contractors, Inc. - IEC, you can learn a trade while being paid: https://esfi.org/jobs

Lithium-ion batteries power many portable electronics, electric vehicles, and even store power in energy storage systems. Discontinue using devices or batteries that have an unusual odor, change in color, too much heat, change in shape, are leaking, smoking, or not keeping a charge. In normal applications, the batteries are safe, but if damaged or overheated, they can cause fires: https://lnkd.in/eSpp7ATF

Space heaters can cause fires. Be sure to turn them off when leaving a room, and never use them with an extension cord. Always keep them at least three feet away from anything that can cause fires. See more safety tips:

When used properly, portable and standby generators are a great option for providing power during brownouts or blackouts. However, improper use and installation of generators can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure to always keep generators at least 20 feet away from doors and windows. Never operate a generator in an enclosed space. Make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. If you experience dizziness, headaches, nausea, or tiredness, immediately go outside for fresh air and call 911.