Keep ladders at least 3 metres (9 feet) away from overhead power lines. Use wooden or fiberglass ladders outdoors.

Carry long equipment such as ladders horizontally.

If using an extension cord, make sure it is listed for the correct wattage being used and it is rated for indoor or outdoor use.

Have your home electrical system inspected by a qualified private inspector or in accordance with local requirements when buying, selling, or renovating a home.

Install tamper-resistant receptacles where needed. Tamper-resistant receptacles are required for new and replacement receptacles inside your home.

Major appliances (refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, microwave ovens, etc.) should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Never use an extension cord with a major appliance—it can easily overheat and start a fire.

Small appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Unplug small appliances when not in use.

Window air conditioners should be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Many manufacturers of room air conditioners prohibit the use of extension cords. If the manufacturer’s instructions allow extension cords, follow the instructions for the proper type.

Buy only appliances and other electronics that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory.

Keep lamps, light fixtures, and light bulbs away from anything that can burn, including furniture, bedding, curtains, clothing, and flammable or combustible gases and liquids.

Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage on the lamp or fixture.

Check electrical cords often. Replace cracked, damaged, and loose electrical or extension cords, including charging cords for portable electronic devices. Do not try to repair them.

Avoid putting cords under rugs and carpets, across doorways, or where they can be damaged or pinched by furniture.

Use only surge protectors or power strips that have internal overload protection. Use surge protectors or power strips that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Extension cords are for temporary use only. Have a qualified electrician determine if additional circuits or wall outlets are needed.

Replace wall outlets if plugs do not fit snugly or the wall outlet does not accept plugs with one blade larger than the other.

All wall outlets and switches should be covered with wall plates to prevent shock.

Arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) protect against electrical fires and malfunctions by shutting off electricity. Have a qualified electrician install AFCIs in your home.

Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) reduce the risk of shock. GFCIs shut off electricity when it becomes a shock hazard. Make sure GFCIs are installed in bathrooms, basements, garages, outdoors, at kitchen counters and in other locations in the home where electricity is near water.

Test AFCIs and GFCIs once a month according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.