Educate Your Child

Hi,
My husband is a Realtor on the San Francisco Peninsula and publishes a newsletter with helpful tips for home owners. He just published his most recent newsletter (see below) that explains May is National Electrical Safety Month - and offers an electrical safety tip checklist for families.
As I went over the list I realized it offers tons of learning opportunities for homeschoolers. You could read this list around the dinner table tonight and talk about what each item means. After dinner go through the house and look for all of the items mentioned. Show your kids:
-where the fuse box and circuit breakers are located, -show them how to inspect your power and extension cords for wear or damage, -show them what a surge protector for your computer looks like, -show them a variety of light bulbs, where the wattage is printed on the bulb, and let the kids help check all of the lamp and light fixtures in the house to make sure you're using bulbs with the correct wattage, -show them how to safely change/replace a light bulb -show them how to safely dispose of used/damaged light bulbs -while you're at it, explain the difference between incandescent and fluorescent bulbs -- if you don't know there's a basic explanation here:
http://www.homefires.com/click?electricbooklet
-to incorporate math have them count the switch plates and electrical outlets throughout the house - or count all of the light bulbs -show them any outdoor electrical outlets you have -show them where your electrical meter is located and how to read it -show them the electrical bill - and show them how you pay it
You'll find lots of lessons and interactive for kids about electrical safety
here:
http://www.nfpa.org/riskwatch/teach_electricalsafety.html
The UK also has a terrific educational website on electricity here:
http://www.switchedonkids.org.uk/
Of course, any discussion of electricity leads to Thomas Edison - and PBS has a terrific site your family will enjoy here:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/edison/
You'll find a neat Electricity booklet online that explains many basic concepts to kids here:
http://www.homefires.com/click?electricity
Here's a printable activity guide that explains how to read the meter and the difference between incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs:
http://www.homefires.com/click?electricbooklet
And for TONS of info on electricity for kids from the Energy Information Administration with fun facts, games, history, famous inventors, classroom activities and more visit:
http://www.eia.doe.gov/kids/index.html
Below, you'll find my husband's newsletter which was the impetus for this.
:) Use the list he provides to not only protect your home, but teach your kids about electrical safety and electricity. Have fun!
Diane
Editor, http://www.Homefires.com
________________________________
From: Cliff Keith and Team [mailto:Cliff@SFBayHomes.com]
Sent: Thursday, May 15, 2008 10:02 AM
To: Diane Keith
Subject: Home Electronic Safety Tips
Diane,
We tend to forget how dangerous electricity can be - without the proper safety precautions it can cause fires, injuries, and even death.
With May as National Electrical Safety Month, now is an excellent time to review basic safety practices - like the following - that can help you protect your home and family from electrical-related disasters.
1. Check for and professionally replace outlets and switches
that have damaged or missing parts or that are hot to the touch.
2. Test circuit breaker operation. If using fuses, confirm the
amp rating is correct for the circuit.
3. Watch out for counterfeit electrical products which might be
unsafe. Look for a certification mark like Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
Also stay informed with email alerts on dangerous product recalls from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (www.cpsc.gov <http://www.cpsc.gov/> ).
4. Reduce fire and shock hazards by replacing worn or damaged
electrical cords. And avoid running cords beneath carpet or near moisture.
5. Be careful not to overload outlets or power strips. Doing
so could create a fire risk.
6. Have a professional install ground fault circuit
interrupters in areas near water sources. If already installed, test GFCIs monthly and after electrical storms.
7. Limit the use of extension cords and ensure they can handle
the total wattage of appliances powered. When outdoors, only use cords rated for outdoor use.
8. Inspect computer equipment for damage to wiring or plugs and
use surge protectors.
9. To prevent overheating and a possible fire, ensure that
bulbs in lamps and light fixtures do not exceed the recommended wattage.
10. Have a professional electrical safety inspection performed
at least every 10 years and conduct your own visual inspection annually.
Keep your family safe. And remember, unless you are knowledgeable about electricity, consult a professional for all electrical needs. Don't hesitate to contact me if you need assistance finding a qualified, professional electrician. I'm always available to help.
Your friend,
Cliff Keith
By Referral Only
Coldwell Banker
650-346-7366
http://www.CliffNotesOnRealEstate.com