Don’t be shocked; faulty electricals responsible for 1/3 of house fires

Many Canadians will spend the coming weeks scrambling to complete home improvement projects they've put off during the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. While home renovations can be exciting, they can be "shocking" if you don't know what you are doing when it comes to electrical installations. Before you begin your renovation it's important to understand the risks associated with doing electrical work, and to realize that potential electrical hazards may exist in your home. "Homeowners may not realize that the electrical wiring in their home can be quite dangerous if it's deteriorated, incorrectly rated or improperly installed," said Lucy Impera, Registrar-Licensing & Certification of the province's Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). The Office on the Ontario Fire Marshal reports 33 per cent of residential fires are associated with electrical wiring, circuits and components. ESA strongly recommends you hire a Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) to do any electrical wiring work on your behalf. An LEC can identify and correct existing hazards in your home, and will ensure that any work performed meets Ontario Electrical Safety Code requirements. "In order to become licensed with the ESA, LECs must demonstrate adherence to rigorous safety standards," said Impera. Last year, the ESA implemented regulations requiring all electrical contracting businesses operating in Ontario to be licensed by the ESA. This new law provides homeowners with peace of mind knowing their electrical contractor is insured; will meet the installation standards set out in the Ontario Electrical Safety Code; will install only certified electrical products; and will make necessary inspection arrangements and provide a copy of the Certificate of Inspection at your request. To find a Licensed Electrical Contractor in your area, visit www.pluginsafely.ca or call 1-877-ESA-SAFE (372-7233).