Electrical Safety Devices at Home: Science 8
Electrical Safety Devices at Home: Science 8
Electrical Safety Devices at Home: Science 8
Electricity has been an important part of our lives. It has made life
convenient, comfortable and easy. It has helped us in the field of
engineering, entertainment, healthcare, transportation, communication,
banking, finance and other industries. Hence, we feel helpless when
occasional power interruptions occur. As electricity gives us comfort and
ease of doing work, it may also endanger us causing hazards to our
properties and even loss of lives. However, we can avoid these hazards by
understanding how electricity works and how to use it properly.
Fuse
Fuses are made up of metal strip that will heat up and melt if the current
exceeds the critical value. If the strip melts, there is a break in the circuit
and electricity will stop flowing through. Once the fuse is blown out, it must
be replaced with a new one once the source of overloading is determined
and remedied.
Circuit Breaker
Other Electric Safety Features It is an electrical safety device similar to extension cords but offers more
protection against sudden increase in current flow. It is usually use to
protect higher end appliances.
Three-Prong Plug
(GFCI) Outlet GFCI outlets are typically found in bathrooms and kitchens
where water may come in contact with an electric circuit thereby risking a
shock. A GFCI outlet contains a device that monitors the amount of current
that goes into and out of the circuit. If less current is returning than leaving,
this means that current is escaping. When this occurs, a tiny circuit breaker
in the outlet interrupts the circuit. The breaker can be reset by pushing a
button on the outlet cover
Surge protectors
Tamper-proof receptacles electric drilling machines, hair dryers, electric fan and vacuum cleaners. Not
only are the electric wires insulated with a coating of plastic but so is the
It is an electrical safety feature that prohibits electric current to flow entire device.
through an electrical outlet unless all slots are activated simultaneously.
This is to protect young children from getting electrocuted when they insert
some metals in the slots of the outlets.
Double insulation
SCIENCE 8
Module 9
Name: __________________________ Date: ________________ B. Write a check (√) mark on the space provided before each
Yr. /Sec: ________________________ statement if it suggests a good practice for electrical safety in the
house and cross (X) mark if not.