When you’re doing DIY construction that involves using power tools or working with wiring, it’s important to be aware of electrical safety. Working with electrical tools and equipment can lead to electrical shock, fires and other hazards if you’re not careful. You can avoid these dangers by making sure you follow these electrical safety tips while tackling DIY construction.
Use GFCIs
Power tools are commonly used in several types of DIY construction projects. When you need to use one or more of these tools for your project, you should always plug them into ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). These outlets help reduce the risk of electrical shock by interrupting the flow of electricity when needed.
Check Cords
Before you use any power tools, check the cords to make sure they’re in good condition. Avoid using any power tool cords or extension cords that are frayed or showing other signs of wear and tear.
Wear Personal Protective Gear
Personal protective gear can keep you safe from injuries when you’re working with power tools. Always wear this type of gear during your DIY construction projects when you’re handing power tools. You should also use power tools that have insulated grips to reduce the risk of injury even more.
Avoid Overloading Outlets
When you need to plug power tools in for your DIY project, avoid overloading outlets. Using too many cords in one outlet can increase the risk of fires. You should also test outlet before using them for power tools to make sure they’re working properly.
Cut or Drill with Caution
When you’re using power tools to drill or cut into walls, use caution in areas where wiring or pipes are located. Otherwise, you could accidentally touch these, which puts you at risk of electric shock. You should take time to locate walls or areas with wiring and pipes before starting your DIY project.
Turn Off Power
When you’re handling DIY projects close to wiring or other power sources, turn off the power to your home first. You can use manual tools or battery-powered tools while doing this part of your DIY construction project. Shutting off power helps prevent fires or electric shock from occurring.
Hire an Electrician
If you’re unsure about any aspect of doing electrical work for your DIY project, you should consider bringing in a professional electrician. This helps keep you and your home safe while ensuring that this type of work is done properly.
About the Author
Miriam McKinney
A true native to the Western North Carolina area with family roots dating back to 1810, I am a true ambassador for Western North Carolina with undergraduate degrees in education and music from Mars Hill University and an MBA from Western Carolina University. As a former teacher in the area my goal is to educate, whether a buyer or seller, by providing the most current, relevant information available and by giving expert guidance throughout. My professional goal is to exceed my client's expectations through a commitment to excellence with their success as the number one goal! Being a trusted advisor and creating lifelong relationships is an honor. The result is that I have been a top producing Realtor providing clients with successful outcomes for 20 years. I am licensed in both North and South Carolina.
Real Estate is my love and passion, and when I am not helping my clients achieve their real estate goals, I am working on my real estate investment portfolio. I am a seasoned investor who not only helps my clients buy and sell real estate, but I own investment real estate as well. My experience with different investments is extensive - from commercial investments, short-term rentals, single family homes and at times I am even the one with the power tools and getting my hands dirty, which is incredibly satisfying and rewarding!
“Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world.” Franklin D. Roosevelt
Giving back to the community and others is what this life is all about. I volunteer with Big Brother/Big Sisters, Conserving Carolina, travel abroad to help build houses for people without homes, give back to my profession as a past Secretary and Director for Land of the Sky Association of Realtors and serve on the Board of Equalization and Review for Buncombe County.
I love living in the mountains and enjoy the coast as well. This is the best of both worlds as North Carolina is an incredible state! I feel blessed to call the mountains of NC my home. One of my favorite activities is to hike with my Jack Russell, "Bella". Other favorites include cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, pilates, yoga, and paddle boarding. You will often find me participating in local and regional races. I love to travel the world but most of all I love coming home!
Experience matters. Real estate transactions are generally the largest transaction that most people ever do. I would be delighted to talk with you about your real estate goals and objectives and put my experience to work for you.
