As humans, we take our electrical safety knowledge for granted, but our pets have no idea what kinds of electrical hazards can cause them harm. That’s why it’s important to make sure your home is a safe place for your entire family, including the furry members of it! Dogs and cats are naturally curious and tend to turn unexpected household items into play or chew toys. A frisky dog or curious cat can cause an electrical hazard or fire in ways you may not have thought about. “Paws” for these electrical safety tips for pets from our TMS electrical team.
1. BLOCK YOUR PET’S ACCESS TO ELECTRICAL CORDS.
If possible, try not to leave plugged in electrical cords out in the open where it’s easy for your pet to gnaw on them. This can get tricky because you also don’t want to put things directly on top of cords (such as a rug) which might cause them to overheat. If you can tuck chords away behind desks, side tables, and entertainment centers, this can help keep your pet safe without sacrificing your safety. The last thing you want is for your pet to receive a severe shock. What may seem like a mild shock to an adult may be enough to kill a small pet.
Do not leave charging cords plugged in (and especially hanging down and accessible) when not in use. Pets (and children!) could put these in their mouths and get burned or shocked.
All appliances near sinks or bathtubs should be plugged into an outlet equipped with a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). Never keep small appliances or electrical devices, such as curling irons, blow dryers or plugged-in cell phones, near water. Playful pets can knock them into the water, creating a dangerous and possibly deadly situation. GFCIs stop the flow of electricity if there is a problem, and when properly used, can save lives. Check GFCIs monthly to make sure they are working.
Also, check to be sure night lights and appliances are completely plugged into wall outlets. Small paws or tongues can easily find partially exposed prongs and are a hazard for curious puppies and kittens.
Lastly, do not allow pets to curl up for a nap behind warm computer equipment, the clothes dryer or other electrical items. Keep an eye on your pet and steer your furry friend away from electrical connections.
2. BUY SOME DETERRENT SPRAY TO DISCOURAGE CHEWING.
If your pet is still seeking out cords to chew on, there are all-natural sprays you can buy that will discourage chewing. Just take care that you are only spraying cords that are 100% intact (no exposed wires). NEVER spray plugs, outlets, power strips, or surge protectors.
3. GIVE PETS PLENTY OF TOYS AND PLAY TIME.
Most pets require ways to get their energy out and things to stimulate them. If you don’t provide play time and things for them to play with (in other words, things to distract them), they might start to play and interact with objects around the house, including electrical cords and equipment.
4. DON’T KEEP MULTIPLE CABLES CLOSE TOGETHER.
Pets can get tangled up in cords and cables that are kept close together, and they may not be able to work themselves free. This can make them panic, which may cause them to injure themselves as they try to squirm and jerk loose.
5. DON’T LEAVE CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTS PLUGGED IN WHEN YOU LEAVE THE HOUSE.
Many pets are intrigued by this “new toy” that gets brought out during the holiday season and will often try to chew on or play with your string lights. Cats and dogs, in particular, have a knack for knocking over Christmas trees. If the lights aren’t plugged in, this will probably lead to some broken ornaments and pine needles on the floor. When the lights are plugged in, this can lead to an electrical fire.
We know, we know. The holidays seem very far off. But preparing for your pets safety is always something to be ready for.
If you believe your pet has chewed on a cord or made contact with another electrical source, look for evidence of burns, increased drooling, coughing, breathing difficulties, mouth irritation, or signs of pain or distress. If you detect any of these, seek veterinary care for your pet immediately.
Our electrical experts at Total Mechanical Systems are here to help with all of your electrical needs, including performing a safety inspection to ensure your home is as electrically safe as possible for pets, children, and yourself. Following these electrical safety tips for pets is a great start, but feel free to call us if you have any electrical questions, concerns, or issues, and we can have one of our electricians out to work with you right away. You, your pets’, and your overall home’s safety are ALWAYS a top priority!
Source: https://safeelectricity.org/paws-take-steps-keep-pets-safe-electrical-hazards-holiday-season/, https://www.allelectric.com/blog/2019/april/protect-your-pets-with-these-electrical-safety-t/
