Electricity Safety at Home

Electricity powers our lights, refrigerators, computers, and phones. It is one of the most useful forms of energy — but it can also be very dangerous if handled incorrectly. Understanding how electricity works helps us use it safely.

What is electricity?

• Electricity is a form of energy caused by the movement of tiny particles called electrons.
• Electricity flows along a path called a circuit. For electricity to flow, the circuit must be complete (no gaps).
• It travels from a power source (a battery or wall outlet), through wires, to a device (a bulb, motor, or screen), and back to the source.

Conductors and insulators

• A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it easily. Most metals are good conductors — copper wire, iron, steel, aluminum.
• An insulator is a material that does NOT allow electricity to flow through it. Insulators coat wires and protect us from electric shocks. Examples: rubber, plastic, wood, glass, dry air.
• Electric cables are made of a metal wire (conductor) wrapped in rubber or plastic (insulator) — the insulator keeps the electricity safely inside the wire.

Safe electrical practices

• Keep water away from all electrical devices — water conducts electricity and can give you a deadly shock.
• Never put fingers or objects into electrical outlets.
• Unplug devices by holding the plug — never pull the cord.
• Tell an adult immediately if you see a frayed or damaged wire.
• Turn off and unplug devices when not in use, and never plug too many things into one outlet.

In an electrical emergency

• Do NOT touch a person who is being shocked — you could be shocked too.
• Get a grown-up to turn off the power (at the circuit breaker or switch).
• A grown-up calls the emergency number (911 in the US). If the grown-up is the one hurt and can’t call, you call the emergency number (911 in the US) and say where you are.