It has been suggested that early electricians at the turn of the century were a paranoid lot. This was a new, untested medium that was replacing familiar gas lighting. These electricians weren’t interested in developing reputations as de facto arsonists. Wiring at the time was pretty simple to begin with, usually just lighting circuits, one receptacle per average-size room, and a very small service or fuse box. Electricians used lead solder followed by tape to join wires and do their work safely. Your dealings with electricity should be equally safe, whether you’re installing a new circuit or screwing in a light bulb. Electricity always is seeking an easy way to travel. Sticking your fingers, screwdrivers, or car keys into light sockets or receptacles provides these charged particles with an alternative path to moving along a wire. An improperly grounded toaster can cook more than your bagels. For now, you’ll need to keep a few rules in mind when dealing with your electrical system:
- Don’t handle anything electrical if you’re wet or are standing on a wet surface.
- Never overload a circuit beyond its capacity.
- Extension cords are for temporary use only.
- Never start an electrical repair or addition until you’re sure how to do the job correctly and the power is shut off.
- When a problem is beyond your expertise, call a licensed electrician.
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