Electrical safety should be everyone’s priority. Check everything off this list monthly to make your home as safe as possible for you and your family.
Bathroom
- All electrical appliances are used away from the sink, tub, toilet, and/or shower.
- All appliance cords are unplugged when not in use.
- All appliances are plugged into GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)-protected outlets, and GFCIs have been tested monthly.
- All unused outlets have safety caps installed, especially when children are in the home.
- All lighting in your shower area is vapor-tight.
Kitchen
- Back of refrigerator has room for air circulation and its coils are free of dirt and buildup.
- All electrical appliances are placed and used away from the sink.
- All appliances are plugged into GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) -protected outlets, and GFCIs have been tested monthly.
- All electrical cords are not cracked, frayed or damaged in any way.
- Appliance cords are not hanging from tables or counters and are unplugged when not in use.
Basement
- Circuit breaker box is labeled with the last electrical inspection, correct amperage, and which rooms, outlets, and circuits they service.
- Standard circuit breakers have been inspected, and you’ve considered talking with your licensed electrician about replacing with Arc Fault Circuit
Interrupters (AFCIs). - Washer and dryer do not wobble excessively while running, have room for air circulation, and dryer lint is removed after each use.
- Furnace has been inspected, cleaned, and has proper ventilation outside the house.
- Temperature on the water heater is set to 120° or less.
Family Room
- All unused outlets have safety caps installed, especially when children are in the home.
- All light switch and outlet covers are not cracked or broken.
- All electrical equipment (lamps, electronics, etc.) are being used without the use of extension cords.
- All power outlets, power strips and surge protectors are not overloaded.
- All electronics have room for air circulation.
Bedroom
- All smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order, and are placed outside all sleeping areas and on every level of the house.
- All light fixtures throughout the home are using bulbs not exceeding the fixture’s maximum wattage.
- No electrical cords are resting under rugs or furniture.
- Electronic devices such as phone chargers are unplugged when not in use.
- Window unit air conditioners are plugged in on their own dedicated circuit.
Garage
- All electrical cords are not cracked, frayed, or damaged in any way – and are never used on a
permanent basis. - Appliance cords are unplugged when not in use.
- All appliances are plugged into GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter)-protected outlets, and GFCIs have been tested monthly.
- Any garage-stored appliances, like refrigerators and freezers, have dedicated 20 amp appliance circuits.
- All storage boxes are placed away from wiring and plugs.
Download the Checklist
Download a printable version of the Home Electrical Safety Checklist (PDF)