Buyer Beware of "Counterfit Electrical Products"

I ran across this recently along with a really neat video of counterfeit electrical cords. One day I will learn how to put video on this blog but for now you'll just have to read what I find.

Here's the article. You can click on the above link and try to find the video yourself too or you can try this link to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. http://www.cpsc.gov/

David

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) encourages you to be more proactive in safeguarding your family and home from dangerous electrical products.


Here are the top 5 things you can do to avoid hazardous electrical products:

1) Avoid buying electrical products from deep discount stores. Many consumers unknowingly purchase counterfeit electrical products. Knock-off extension cords, decorative lights, receptacles, hair dryers, irons, toasters and hundreds of other consumer products have caused shocks, electrocutions and fires. These products are missing key safety features and are often found at deep discount stores, flea markets, and on similar online forums


2) Make sure that your home has Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and that they are working. GFCIs are special outlets that recognize when electricity is leaking from an electrical product and then cut power to that product in milliseconds. GFCIs have been credited for saving thousands of people from electrocution over the last three decades. If GFCIs were installed in all homes, experts suggest that 70 percent of the approximately 400 electrocutions that occur each year in the home could be prevented.


3) Use extension cords appropriately. No joke…this is an issue. CPSC estimates that about 2,000 people are treated each year for injuries associated with extension cords. Remember that extension cords are designed for temporary use only. Do not run them under furniture or rugs. Replace cracked, worn or frayed extension cords with new ones.


4) Use the appropriate wattage of light bulb. Want a brighter room? Just grab a higher wattage light bulb, right? Wrong! A bulb of too high wattage or of the wrong type may lead to fires. Some ceiling fixtures and recessed lights even trap heat.


5) Let common sense be your guide. Altering plugs or cords and using electrical products close to water are recipes for disaster.

If you ever have any questions or concerns about an electrical product, call the manufacturer or qualified service professional.