Flood safety
Walking through a wet or flooded basement can be dangerous. To be safe, you should always assume that basement flood water is energized.
Electrical outlets near water sources like sinks and laundry appliances, as well as all garage and outdoor outlets, should have a ground fault interrupter (GFCI). These are the outlets with the "test" and "reset" buttons. If every home had GFCIs, deaths from electrocution in and around the home could be reduced by 50%.
A GFCI works by monitoring the flow of electricity through the outlet's circuit. If there is any variation in the current, the GFCI will automatically cut off the flow of electricity, preventing injury.
There are three different types of ground fault circuit interrupters:
GFCIs should be tested every month. Plug a lamp or radio into a GFCI outlet and turn it on. Push the "test" button on the outlet; the lamp or radio should turn off immediately. If it doesn't, the GFCI has been wired improperly, and should be fixed by a certified electrician.
GFCIs are inexpensive and provide the best protection against electrical hazards, and we strongly recommend using them in your home. But remember, even the best GFCI can't offer 100 percent protection, so never forget other electrical safety rules.
Walking through a wet or flooded basement can be dangerous. To be safe, you should always assume that basement flood water is energized.
Find out what causes deadly carbon monoxide poisoning - and how to prevent and detect it.
A garage door app will alert you when the door is open and allow you to open and close the door from your smart phone.
Make sure your electrical appliances, tools and outlets are safe, and be careful around electrical equipment outdoors.
If you have buried natural gas lines on your property, make sure you know how to locate and maintain them.
Using universal design principals, your home can adapt to your changing lifestyle needs.
Find out how to test for radon in your home and what to do if you have it.
Drying clothes takes a lot of energy. Keeping your dryer vent clean makes your appliance more energy efficient.
Although leaks from natural gas lines are rare, it’s important to know the warning signs.