Mexico. In Mexico one of the main causes of death of minors are accidents at home, including those related to electricity, so it is important that you take into account some electrical safety rules.
To avoid risks, Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management and automation, shares five recommendations to keep your children safe:
1. There is no place like home: you should always ensure a safe environment, with tamper resistant plugs. These systems have a shutter that stops the conduction of electricity if a foreign object is inserted. The cables should also be out of reach and out of sight of children, as the little ones can even bite them and suffer a serious accident.
2. Water and electricity are no friends: Teach your children that water and electricity should never come together. It is recommended that in bathrooms, sinks, bathtubs and sinks GFCI circuit breakers (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) are installed, which when detecting any energy imbalance interrupt the flow of electric current.
3. Do not abuse extensions: remember that extensions are for temporary use only and that you must disconnect them when they end their use. Install them without using staples or nails, monitoring that the cable is not stretched or crushed by doors, windows or furniture.
4. Take care of them also outside the home: that they learn to recognize the different risks related to electricity that exist on the street. When flying kites or playing with metal balloons, ask them to stay away from power lines, as contact with cables can cause damage and even blackouts. Watch that they do not climb trees near light poles and that they never try to rescue a trapped object.
5. Better safe than sorry: teach them to detect any problems in the switches. Ask them to let you know if they find discolorations or stains on the plates, hot surfaces or if they hear sparks when turning on the light. A certified electrician will be able to review your installation and resolve any faults.
In case it is necessary to check the electrical installation of the house, it is important that the work is done by a certified person. Schneider Electric Mexico is committed to promoting the training of electricians in Mexico, through a free program that has impacted more than 1,200 electricians in Mexico City and the Metropolitan Area.
