WINNIPEG, MB - July 12, 2012 - The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is reminding residents to take precautions to prevent fires that can be caused by overloading of electrical circuits. High temperatures during the past week have led to a small number of electrical fires that appear to have been caused by circuit overloading by portable air conditioners.
When using additional cooling appliances such as portable air conditioners, citizens should observe the following:
- Use dedicated circuits
- Plug the unit in directly to the receptacle, without the use of extension cords
- Do not increase the fuse or breaker size beyond 15 amps
- Reduce the demand on the home electrical system by reducing consumption in other areas
- Use alternate means to cool the home such as keeping windows shaded or covered or keeping doors and windows closed during the hottest part of the day
It is also recommended that homeowners contact qualified electricians to upgrade home wiring so that appliances like portable air conditioners can operate without the risk of overloading electrical outlets.
For more information on seasonal electrical safety, visit http://www.hydro.mb.ca/