Continued:

Electric stoves are involved in 53 percent of home appliance related fires.  However, these fires are mostly the result of careless cooking rather than the stove’s malfunction.  Safe cooking practices can reduce or eliminate these fires 

Never place a hot appliance on anything flammable, as it could easily start a fire.  This is particularly true of hair curling irons and hair dryers that are hot from being used and then are placed on bed linens or bath towels.    

If an appliance smokes or has an unusual smell, unplug it immediately and have it repaired before it is used again.  If necessary, contact a reputable service technician.  If an appliance is equipped with a three-prong plug, use it only in a three-prong outlet or extension cord, and do not force it into a two-slot outlet.  Never break off the third prong, or leave the third prong exposed. 

Regularly inspect your electrical appliances and cords.  Have any electrical cords that are worn, old or damaged replaced immediately.  Do not allow children to play with or near electrical appliances or cords.  Never run cords through and around doors and windows, hide them under carpets, or leave them coiled up. 

When purchasing electrical appliances, look for products with the mark of an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL).  Remember that even though the product has a testing label on it, it can still be a hazard if it is not used properly.   

Electricity can present many dangers.  When your body is wet, your chances of electric shock increase.  Always plug appliances that are used near water into a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet to prevent the chance of an electric shock.  If an appliance falls into water, or is damaged in any way, unplug it immediately, and have it checked by a qualified technician, or safely dispose of it. 

Always read the manual that comes with the product.  Owner’s manuals contain product usage instructions and safety information.  The information provided may save your life. 

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.  Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day!  If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 or stop into either fire station any Monday night.  The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.