Electricity is there to help brew your morning coffee, operate your computer, heat your home and run your television. We use electricity so often that we seldom think about the dangers.

Take a moment to think about how often you depend upon electricity and answer the following questions. Every question you answer with “no” is an opportunity for you to make your home a safer place to live.

Are heat producing electrical appliances unplugged when you are not using them?

Are electrical cords in good condition, not frayed or cracked?

Are electrical outlets overloaded in your home?

Are electrical cords kept out from beneath furniture and rugs?

Do all outlets and light switches work?

Never use water on an electrical fire, you could get shocked. If the fire is small, turn the power off and use a multi-purpose (ABC) dry-chemical extinguisher to put out the fire. If you can’t turn the power off, or the fire is large, evacuate your home and call 911 from a safe phone.