Increased electrical use in summer can place strain on a home’s electrical systems. During the hot summer months, consumers run the risk of overloading wiring systems due to the extended use of air conditioning and other cooling mechanisms, possibly resulting in serious shock or fire. If the home has an old or damaged electrical system, it has an even higher chance of danger.

As part of the new “Teach Learn Care” TLC campaign, Safe Electricity urges everyone to be aware of the added stress placed on a home’s electrical systems during summer months and steps you can take to keep your loved ones safe.

“Underwriters Laboratories estimates more than one-third of houses in the United States are more than 50 years old,” says Mike Ashenfelter, Sangamon County Electrical Inspector. “Considering the increase in appliance usage and related electrical demands over the past half century, many older homes are not adequately wired to handle and support the increased demands.”

Outdated wiring can become overheated due to the increased loads required to run the appliances typically found in today’s homes. If the wiring is deteriorating or crumbling it can be damaging its own insulation putting the system at risk for fire.

According to the NFPA, faulty electrical distribution and wiring contributes to tens of thousands of fires, hundreds of deaths, and more than a thousand injuries, not to mention more than half a billion dollars in damages. In order to help protect you and your family watch for these warning signs:<>p>

• Lights often flicker, blink or dim momentarily


• Circuit breakers trip or fuses blow often


• Cords or wall plates are warm to the touch or discolored


• Crackling, sizzling or buzzing is heard from outlets