Page 23 - IEC Insights May-Jun20

FEATURE

SMART, SECURE, AND
SAFE
SAFE

HOMES

T BY BRIANNE DEERWESTER

To commemorate National
Electrical Safety Month each
May, the Electrical Safety
Foundation International
(ESFI) spearheads an
annual campaign to educate
key audiences about the A smart home isn’t just about the automation and implementation of home security
steps they can take to cameras, automatic lighting, wireless speakers, and smart thermostats. It’s about
reduce the number of the lifesaving safety devices that provide peace of mind while at home and away.
electrically-related fires,
fatalities, injuries, and
property losses. ESFI’s The average American home is around 40 who have four to five years of on the job
2020 theme, Smart Home, years old and does not have an adequate training, are up to date on their state’s
focuses on the lifesaving electrical system to meet today’s demands. electrical code, and are licensed, insured, and
devices that keep a home ESFI is educating consumers on the devices bonded in their state. They purchase from
smart and secure. Having that can meet their home’s electrical needs: reputable retailers and distributors, stand
a smart home doesn’t ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs), behind their work, and can be reached by
mean purchasing a new surge protective devices (SPDs), arc-fault multiple methods. They perform safe work,
home, it means having the circuit interrupters (AFCIs), and tamper leave a paper trail, pull required permits, and
right equipment to keep resistant receptacles (TRRs). These devices provide the most energy efficient solutions.
families safe. ESFI’s National are all required in new or renovated homes In addition to emphasizing the importance
Electrical Safety Month according to the National Electrical Code. of consulting qualified electricians, ESFI
program features resources Before a consumer plans a renovation or provides information on what safety devices
to help facilitate effective home upgrade, ESFI urges them to consult a should be installed and how they operate.
electrical safety awareness qualified electrician to complete all electrical Contractors can share this material with
for your home or workplace. their customers to help them make safe and
work. IEC members are qualified electricians informed decisions.

www.ieci.org | May/June 2020 | Insights Magazine 21