GALION, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—As temperatures drop and homeowners rely more heavily on heaters, electric blankets and holiday lights, the risk of electrical fires and hazards significantly increases. Local experts are urging residents to take proactive safety steps to prevent dangerous circuit overloads and equipment malfunctions this winter.

C.B. Electrical in Galion emphasizes that the biggest risks come from devices used to keep warm, such as portable space heaters.

Space heaters are a leading cause of home fires during the winter because they draw a lot of power and can overheat circuits or ignite nearby materials.

Homeowners should follow these critical safety guidelines:

Space Heater Safety

  • Maintain Clearance: Always keep a minimum of three feet of space between a space heater and anything flammable, including curtains, rugs, furniture, and bedding.
  • Plug Directly into Wall: Never plug a space heater into an extension cord or a power strip. These devices cannot handle the high current required by heaters and can easily overheat, melt, or cause a fire. Plug heaters directly into a wall outlet only.
  • Unattended Use: Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or going to sleep. Use models that feature automatic shut-off if they tip over.

Avoid Overloading Circuits

The surge in winter electrical use, often due to added decorations, lighting and supplementary heating, can strain older wiring systems.

  • Outlet Limits: Avoid plugging too many high-wattage devices into a single outlet. If an outlet feels warm to the touch or if lights flicker when an appliance turns on, a circuit overload is likely occurring and should be addressed by a professional.
  • Extension Cords: Extension cords are intended for temporary use only. Never run cords under carpets or rugs, which can damage the insulation and cause overheating, leading to a fire. Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated cords for all exterior applications.

Check for Warning Signs

Beyond checking individual appliances, homeowners should be vigilant for signs of compromised wiring or system failure, which often become more apparent under winter strain.

  • Inspect Cords: Regularly check all appliance cords and electric blankets for signs of fraying, cracking, or damage, and replace them immediately if damage is found. Electric blankets over 10 years old pose an elevated risk.
  • Test Devices: Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries. Carbon monoxide hazards increase in winter due to the closed nature of homes and the increased use of gas- or wood-burning heat sources.

C.B. Electrical recommends that homeowners in older homes or those experiencing frequent tripped breakers consider having a professional inspection. A licensed electrician can evaluate wiring condition, assess panel capacity, and install modern safety features like Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs), which detect dangerous arcing and shut off power before a fire can start.

Sponsored by C.B. Electrical, serving Galion and the surrounding communities.