Unplug unused appliances and store cords safely out of reach of pets, young children or hazardous situations.
Appliances that generate heat, such as clocks, televisions and computer monitors, should be given several inches of clearance all around for good air circulation and cooling.
Keep all electrical appliances away from water such as sinks, bathtubs, pools or overhead vents that may drip. Be sure all outlets around these areas are protected by GFCI's.
Do not operate any electrical appliance with wet hands or while standing in water.
Cords should be firmly plugged into outlets - if the cord is loose and can pull out easily, choose a different, more snug outlet.
Cords should not be placed beneath rugs where they can become a trip hazard or where frays will not be noticeable. Furthermore, covering a cord will prevent it from keeping as cool as possible.
Every cord has to plug into an appropriate electrical outlet, but these tempting niches are inviting to unwelcome objects that can cause shorts and fires.
Do not overload outlets with multiple adaptors or power stips; relocate cords instead.
Install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets in potentially hazardous areas such as near pools, crawlspaces, kitchens and bathrooms.
Keep trees pruned and away from power lines overhead as well as where the power lines approach the house.