Electricity is something most of us take for granted — until something goes wrong. From powering your morning coffee to charging your phone, it’s easy to forget how much we rely on safe, functional wiring. But electrical hazards can appear silently and unexpectedly, posing serious risks to your home and family.

As your Erie electrician, Reigel Electrical wants to help you keep your home safe, efficient, and up to code. Here are the most important electrical safety tips every homeowner should know — whether you live in an older Erie home or a newly built property.

1. Don’t Overload Outlets or Power Strips

One of the most common causes of electrical fires is overloaded outlets. Plugging too many high-powered devices — like space heaters, hair dryers, or kitchen appliances — into a single outlet or extension cord can overheat the circuit and lead to sparks or fire.

Tips:

• Avoid daisy-chaining power strips or plugging multiple extension cords together.
• Use one major appliance per outlet whenever possible.
• If you consistently need more outlets, call an Erie, PA electrician to install additional ones safely.

2. Use the Right Extension Cords — and Use Them Wisely

Extension cords are meant for temporary use, not as a permanent power solution. Using indoor cords outdoors or running them under rugs and furniture can create overheating and shock risks.

Tips:

• Choose heavy-duty, grounded cords for high-wattage devices.
• Keep cords visible and away from high-traffic areas.
• If you rely on extension cords daily, talk to your Erie electrician about installing permanent outlets where you need them most.

3. Install GFCI Outlets in Wet Areas

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets are designed to prevent electric shock in areas where water is present — like bathrooms, kitchens, garages, and outdoor spaces. They instantly shut off power when they detect a ground fault.

Tips:

• Press the “test” and “reset” buttons monthly to ensure proper function.
• If your home doesn’t have GFCIs in all moisture-prone areas, contact Reigel Electrical, your Erie, PA electrician, to upgrade your outlets for modern safety standards.

4. Keep Electrical Devices Away from Water

It sounds obvious, but even small lapses in judgment can be dangerous. Using electrical appliances too close to sinks, bathtubs, or outdoor pools can lead to serious shocks.

Tips

• Always dry your hands before touching plugs or switches.
• Unplug appliances like hair dryers, toasters, and electric razors immediately after use.
• Never touch an electrical device that’s fallen into water — unplug it at the breaker first, then call a professional.

5. Watch for Warning Signs of Electrical Trouble

Your home often gives subtle clues that something isn’t right. Learning to spot these early can prevent bigger problems later.

Warning signs include:

• Flickering or dimming lights
• Frequently tripping breakers
• Warm or discolored outlets and switches
• Buzzing sounds or burning odors
• Outlets that no longer work

If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a licensed Erie electrician for inspection. Ignoring these warning signs could put your home at risk of electrical fires.

6. Replace Damaged Cords and Outlets Immediately

Frayed cords, cracked outlet covers, and exposed wires are accidents waiting to happen. They can cause shorts, shocks, and even start fires.

Tips: Inspect cords and plugs regularly, and never use tape to “fix” damaged insulation. Replace worn cords completely, and have your Erie electrician repair or replace damaged outlets and switches promptly.

7. Upgrade Outdated Wiring and Panels

If your home was built before the 1980s, it might still have outdated wiring — such as aluminum or knob-and-tube wiring — that can’t handle the demands of today’s appliances. Likewise, older electrical panels may not have sufficient capacity or safety features.

Tips: Ask a professional Erie, PA electrician to perform a home electrical safety inspection. Reigel Electrical offers detailed assessments to identify outdated wiring, overloaded panels, and other safety risks before they cause trouble.

8. Teach Your Family Electrical Safety Basics

Electrical safety isn’t just for adults. Children and teens should also learn how to respect electricity and recognize danger.

Tips

• Use outlet covers in homes with small children.
• Teach kids never to stick objects into outlets or play with cords.
• Show older children how to safely unplug devices by gripping the plug, not the cord.

These small lessons can prevent serious injuries.

9. Schedule Routine Electrical Inspections

Just like you maintain your HVAC system or roof, your electrical system needs regular checkups. Annual inspections help catch potential issues early and ensure your system complies with current safety codes.

Tips: Reigel Electrical, your Erie electrician, offers preventive maintenance and inspections throughout Erie, Crawford, and Warren counties. We’ll test your circuits, check your outlets, and ensure your home is protected against potential electrical hazards.

10. Know When to Call the Pros

Even if you’re comfortable handling small home repairs, electricity is one area best left to trained professionals. DIY electrical work can be extremely dangerous and lead to fire or electrocution if done incorrectly.

Call an Erie, PA electrician if you notice:

• Burning smells from outlets or switches
• Warm wall plates
• Breakers that keep tripping
• Sparks or buzzing sounds
• Power surges or sudden appliance failures

Your safety and peace of mind are worth more than any DIY savings.

Trust Reigel Electrical — Your Erie, PA Electrician for Safe, Reliable Service

Your home’s electrical system deserves expert care. At Reigel Electrical, we’ve proudly served homeowners across Erie, PA, with dependable service, honest pricing, and exceptional workmanship. Whether you need outlet upgrades, panel replacements, or a full safety inspection, our licensed team has you covered.

Contact Reigel Electrical today to schedule an inspection or request a free quote.
Stay safe, stay powered, and count on your Erie electrician for all your residential electrical needs.