The Chelsea Fire Department would like to remind all residents and community members that May is National Electrical Safety Month! Hundreds of electrical fires occur in Massachusetts each year, resulting in dozens of injuries and millions of dollars in damage.

With these tips gathered from the Massachusetts State Fire Marshal, we hope to reduce that number and keep our community safe.

“Many of these fires can be prevented by taking some simple steps. A few minutes of caution today can prevent a potential disaster tomorrow.”

Tips:

• Residents should check their power cords and outlets for damage. Damaged electrical cords should always be replaced.
• Always use a licensed electrician, whether it is for a major wiring project or minor repairs.
• You should always call an electrician if you notice any of these warning signs:
• Frequently blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers
• Dim or flickering lights and bulbs that wear out too fast
• Overheated plugs, cords, or switches
• Extension cords are meant for temporary use; never run cords under rugs or furniture.
• Avoid overloading outlets and power strips; they should only be used with a few low-current devices, such as electronics.
• No more than one appliance should be plugged into a wall outlet.

“You should call 9-1-1 immediately if you notice an arc or sparks, a sizzling or buzzing sound, or an odor of burning from an outlet or electrical device. The fire department has specialized equipment for these emergency types and will investigate any concerns you have.”

For more safety tips or questions, contact the Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Division at 617-466-4620