Children are naturally curious. So be sure to install safety covers in all unused outlets they can reach. Also, replace any missing or broken wall plates.

Electrical plugs should fit securely into outlets. Loose-fitting plugs used in outlets can overheat and lead to fire. Never remove the ground pin (the third prong) to make a three-prong plug fit a two-conductor outlet; this could lead to electrical shock. NEVER FORCE A PLUG INTO AN OUTLET. Avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances.

Keep your electrical appliance or tool humming by ensuring its cord is in good working condition, not frayed or cracked. Cords should be placed away from traffic areas, but not under carpeting or rugs. In addition, they should never be nailed or stapled to the wall, baseboard or other object. Also, do not rest furniture on cords.   

Powering multiple electrical components with a single extension cord can spell big trouble. Do not overload extension cords. Furthermore, extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis since they are not intended as permanent household wiring. And make sure extension cords have safety closures to help prevent young children from shock and burns to the mouth.

Yes. It's important to use the correct wattage of bulbs in light fixtures. Incorrect wattage may make that appliance more susceptible to causing a fire. If you don't know the correct wattage, check with the manufacturer of the fixture. Make sure bulbs are screwed in securely. Loose bulbs may overheat.

When it comes to circuit breakers and fuses, size matters. Breakers and fuses should be the correct size current rating for their circuit. If you do not know the correct size, have an electrician identify and label the size to be used. Always replace a fuse with one the same size.

If an appliance has shocked you, or repeatedly blows a fuse or trips a circuit breaker, unplug it and have it repaired or replaced.

When tuning in to your favorite TV program, make sure your equipment is in good condition and working properly. Look for cracks or damage in wiring, plugs and connectors. To protect your electronics from surges in power, purchase a surge protector bearing the seal of a nationally recognized certification agency like Underwriter Laboratories (UL).

Prevent fires from space heaters and halogen floor lamps by keeping them at least 3 feet away from combustible materials such as bedding, clothing, draperies and furniture. Don't use these types of heaters or lamps in rooms where children are unsupervised.

Halogen lamps, which operate at much higher temperatures than standard incandescent light bulbs, should be turned off whenever you leave the room for an extended period of time. Heaters should be turned off and unplugged when not in use.

Blow-drying your hair shouldn't be a shocking experience. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) can help prevent electrocution. They should be used in any area where water and electricity may be used at the same time such as near sinks or laundry appliances. A GFCI monitors the flow of electricity through the outlet's circuit. If it detects any variation in the current, the GFCI will automatically stop the flow of electricity, preventing injury.

Test GFCIs monthly and after every storm. Here's how:

• Push the "reset" button (usually red) to prepare the GFCI for testing.
• Plug a nightlight or other small electrical device into the outlet: the light or device should turn on.
• Push the GFCI's "test" button (usually black): the light or device should go off.
• Finally, push the "reset" button again: the light or device should come back on.
• GFCI receptacles that fail this test should be replaced immediately by a licensed electrician.

Water and electricity don't mix, so never plug in appliances where they could come into contact with water. If a plugged-in appliance falls into water, DO NOT reach in to pull it out, even if it's turned off. First, turn off the power source at the panel board (circuit breaker box) and then unplug the appliance. Don't use an appliance that has gotten wet until it's been checked by a qualified repairman.

Weather storms the safe way. During an electrical storm (a storm that produces lightning), avoid using telephones (except in an emergency) or appliances such as hair dryers, toasters and radios. Also, do not take a bath or shower. In addition, use surge protectors for electronics and keep batteries on hand for flashlights and radios in case of a power outage.