Electricity keeps our homes comfortable and convenient, but it also comes with risks when systems aren’t maintained properly. Bassett Services is proud to serve homeowners across Indiana and Ohio with trusted electrical, HVAC, and plumbing solutions, and we know how important safety is when it comes to wiring, outlets, and everyday use. This checklist is designed to help you spot potential hazards before they become emergencies.
Why Electrical Safety Matters
Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits aren’t just inconveniences — they’re leading causes of house fires in Indiana and Ohio. A safety-first mindset ensures:
- Protection from fire hazards
- Prevention of electrical shocks
- Longer life for appliances and electronics
- Peace of mind for your family
Regular inspections and good habits go a long way toward keeping your home safe.
Room-by-Room Electrical Safety Checklist
Living Areas & Bedrooms
- Check outlets and switches for discoloration, buzzing, or warmth.
- Avoid overloading extension cords and power strips.
- Make sure cords are not running under rugs or furniture.
- Install tamper-resistant outlets if you have children.
Kitchen
- Ensure GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets are installed near sinks.
- Keep small appliances unplugged when not in use.
- Inspect cords on toasters, coffee makers, and microwaves for wear.
- Don’t plug multiple high-wattage appliances into the same outlet.
Bathroom
- Verify that all outlets are GFCI-protected.
- Keep cords away from water sources.
- Test GFCI outlets monthly using the “test” and “reset” buttons.
Basement & Utility Areas
- Inspect electrical panels for rust, corrosion, or tripped breakers.
- Make sure your sump pump has a dedicated circuit.
- Avoid using extension cords for appliances like freezers or washers.
- Consider installing a whole-home surge protector to guard against storms.
Outdoors
- Use only weather-rated outlets and extension cords.
- Cover exterior outlets with watertight covers.
- Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from power lines.
- Inspect landscape lighting for exposed wires.
Annual Electrical Safety Tasks
Some safety steps should be added to your yearly home maintenance checklist:
- Schedule a professional electrical inspection.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Review your breaker panel labeling to ensure accuracy.
- Replace old or outdated light fixtures with modern, efficient options.
Signs You May Need Professional Help
Call a licensed electrician from Bassett Services if you notice:
- Frequently tripped breakers or blown fuses
- Flickering or dimming lights when appliances run
- Outlets sparking or producing burning odors
- Buzzing sounds near panels or outlets
- Lack of GFCI outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, or garages
These are not issues to ignore — they can signal underlying wiring or breaker problems.
DIY vs. Professional Electrical Work
Homeowners can safely handle tasks like:
- Replacing light bulbs
- Testing GFCI outlets
- Resetting tripped breakers
But bigger jobs, including panel upgrades, rewiring, or outlet replacement, should only be done by licensed electricians. Attempting these repairs yourself can create hazards and may even void home insurance coverage.
How Bassett Services Protects Your Home
With more than 40 years of experience, Bassett is the trusted choice across Indiana and Ohio for:
- Panel upgrades and breaker repair
- Outlet and switch installation
- Whole-home generator services
- Surge protection and wiring repairs
- Lighting and ceiling fan installation
We provide same-day service when safety concerns can’t wait, and every repair is backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
Don’t take chances with your family’s safety. Schedule an electrical inspection with Bassett Services today and keep your home protected year-round.For more than four decades, homeowners across Indiana and Ohio have relied on us for dependable electrical expertise. Call Bassett Services now at (317) 785 0965 to book your safety inspection and enjoy peace of mind.
