What Effects Does Electricty And Technology Have On Our Lives

Published: 18th May 2011
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Electricity has become the driving force in every up to date technological design and device that we are enjoying today. But, however useful electricity is, there remains to be rather a sizeable incidence of electricity-related mishaps all over the planet. Every year, electrical incidents account for thousands of people who sustain a shock injury, burns of varying levels and most horrible of all, death due to electrical faults.

Why is Electricity so Dangerous?

Overhead power lines which carry about 500,000 volts are not insulated. Substations and transformers possess "live" parts that are hazardous. Underground cables are well insulated, but any sharp object like a shovel for example could damage them, thus generating an electric shock. Electricity every time will find the shortest path to the earth. It will seek any good conductor that it can pass through to get to the earth. As your body is about 70% water, it instantly will become a good conductor for electricity. If you touch a live wire while your feet are touching the ground, electricity will pass through your body to get to the ground creating an electric shock that can be harmful or even lethal.



Electric current can also generate extensive burns inside your body. The lung and heart muscles can also be affected by electric shock. Direct current (DC) can make muscles involuntarily contract whilst alternating current (AC) can cause the heart to fibrillate.

Power lines are not the only cables that will harm you if you make contact to them. Home electrical equipment and wires also have the capability to harm you if you do not know how to take safeguards. December is the most hazardous month in terms of electrical fires. This is because there are more indoor activities all through this month that cause a rise inthe need for lighting, heating and appliance usage.

Electrical Safety Tips.

A number of electricity-related incidents can be averted by following easy safety tips in the home. It is essential that you educate the children about observing and practicing electrical safety procedures.

Electrical Sockets and Cables.

Check plug sockets for slack fitting plugs that could overheat and create a fire. If wall plates are gone or damaged be sure to replace them. If there are kids in the home, cover up all wall outlets as a safety precaution and tell your children not to play around the sockets. If achievable, cover wall outlets or sockets with furnishings.


See to it that cables are in good working order and not frayed or worn. Cables should not be nailed onto walls or placed under heavy carpeting. Donot put any furniture on top of them. If you are using extension cables, make sure that they are not overloaded. Extension cables ought to only be used on a temporary basis only. When unplugging cables remember to pull the plug from the outlet and not the cable itself.

Electrical Appliances.

All unused devices have to be unplugged and their cables out of reach from young offspring, pets. Be certain that appliances that generate heat have some clearance all around for cooling and air circulation. When using devices follow instructions and do not carry out repairs that you are not experienced to do. It is best to keep all electrical devices away from areas where water is present such as sinks, lavatories, swimming pools, tubs or any overhead vents that might drip. Bear in mind not to operate electrical equipment with wet hands or while standing in water. If you have radiators, heating vents or space heaters, keep away items of clothing, toys, curtains or any flammable materials.

Outdoor Electrical Safety.

It has long been noticed that some people mistakenly elect to use electric lawn mowers or tools when it is raining or when the grass is wet. Stop! You will only electricute yourself.

If there are parts of a tree that are near the power lines, make sure you trim them. If you are not able to do it, call the local tree surgeon and ask for help in pruning the tree. Stay away from power lines when you are flying kites or model airplanes. If there is an electrical storm (lightning) do not swim or play near water. If you see a power line that is down, don’t touch it, even if you think it's not "live". Call the proper authorities.

I have always had all of the properties that I own maintained by the same company, they go by the name of Electricians London. Over the years they have saved me plenty of money, just by giving me some very useful advise and help.


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