July 15, 2008

SAFETY - TAKE IT HOME

Several accidents and injuries take place due to gas explosions/fires, electrical shocks, burns from appliances, wall outlets and extension cords. Unfortunately majority of these victims are children.

Case histories illustrate the following major accident patterns:

1. People trip over wires.2. Short circuit or electrical leakage takes place in switches, receptacles or

appliances being used near water.3. Children insert fingers and metal objects in wall outlets.4. Children while playing, place ends of extension cords in their mouths.5. Gas explosions, while switching on lights or exhaust fans, etc., in kitchens where

gas was leaking.

Following suggestions will help you make your home safer for you and your children:

ELECTRICAL

1. If a wall outlet is not in use, do not leave it exposed.2. Wherever possible use receptacles (female plugs) with self-closing outlets.3. Be sure that a plug is completely inserted in the outlet with none of its prongs

exposed.4. When using as extension cord, test the receptacle to be sure the appliances plug

fits securely, but does not stick.5. Avoid using extension cords on Air Conditioners, Cookers, Heaters and other high

wattage appliances.6. Make sure all your appliances have the third wire for grounding, so that they are

grounded when plugged into a receptacle.7. Exercise extra care with fittings, appliances etc., in bathrooms or other places

near water.8. Do not operate any electrical equipment, appliances, switch etc., when your feet

or hands are wet.9. Educate and instruct children not to go near plugs, outlets and electrical

appliances.10. Inspect extensions and appliance cords for fraying, exposed wires, or damaged

insulation. Repair or scrap them as required.

SUI GAS

1. Check that Sui Gas valves are fully turned off when not in use and before lighting a match.

2. Apply lighted match or torch to burner at burner level before turning on gas.3. Gas leaks can, in most cases, be detected by sound of escaping gas or by its

smell. In no case should leakage be detected by application of naked light.4. If leakage is observed no electric lights, fans, exhaust fans, etc., should be

switched on or off. Open all doors and windows to ventilate area.

SAFETY - EVERYWHERE AND EVERYTIME

SAFETY TALK No: 07/08