Electrical Safety in the Bathroom

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Bathrooms pose a high risk of electric shock because of the potential for electricity to come into contact with water. Follow these tips to stay safe.

• Equip bathroom outlets with ground-fault circuit interrupters.
• Ensure that all electrical outlets are a safe distance from water.
• Consider covering outlets when they are not in use.
• Never use electrical devices while standing in water.
• Use appliances with built-in GFCIs.
• Consider recessed lights to keep fixtures away from water.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of a fire.
• Always turn off and unplug bathroom appliances when you’re finished using them.
• Inspect cords on curling irons, hair dryers and other devices for damage, and discard them if unsafe.
• Have electrical work or repairs in the bathroom done by a professional.