For any electrical work, call a professional electrician to avoid costly and dangerous mistakes.

Always take precautions before starting with electrical work. Inspect all the outdoor outlets and look for visible and functional damage. Check the entire area for signs of water or moisture build-up, which could increase the risk of electrocution.

Examine the RCD (Residual Current Device) every month since they help in avoiding hazards. Avoid any work during bad or stormy weather. Ensure all the electrical appliances are clean. Some electrical devices, especially those placed outside, get dirty, increasing the risk of overheating and fire hazards.

Never endeavour to carry out work if not certified and licensed for it. Ensure keeping hands dry before touching appliances or switches. Hold the plug, not the cable, while removing any instrument from the power point.

Ensure acquiring accurate information for any potential electrical cable buried underground prior to digging. It's easy to get give free information on where to dig. When working with ladders, check for overhead wires.

Before using power extension cables, check if they are meant for outdoor use since not all cables are designed to be used outside.

How do you protect yourself when doing outdoor electrical installations?

First, turn the main power switch off before testing any faults. Plug anything in the socket only when switched off. Put the plug of the electrical equipment inside the socket and then turn on the power.

Take care of damaged cords

If the cord of an electrical appliance is damaged, do not use it. Unwind the cable if wound on a reel to prevent overheating. Never touch any appliances with frayed cords, damaged insulation or broken plugs.

Wear appropriate clothes

Carry a pair of insulated rubber gloves and goggles and wear them while dealing with any electric circuit or branch circuit. This will help in avoiding a major electrical mishap.

Underground cabling

Working outside with underground cables is dangerous if mishandled. Digging with a spade can damage the wires, so dig while wearing insulated gloves.

Use wooden ladders

Using a metallic ladder poses a significant risk of shock when working on height. A wooden ladder is highly recommended for electrical work.

Can outdoor electrical installations be dangerous?

Working with electricity is hazardous work and electricity can cost people their lives in the worst-case scenario.

DIY electric work at home without any knowledge is risky. Cutting or just touching the wrong wire can give a fatal electric shock. A small shock is not deadly, but electrocution can give deep internal burns or even worse.

Incorrect bulb voltage, the wrong gauge of electric wire, faulty installation of switches and outlet, wrong fuse size or amperage can cause an electric fire that can burn a whole house down if mishandled.

A wet outdoor power outlet can give a shock when touched.

Uncovered outdoor outlets can cause sparks that can start a fire, whether in use or not.

For any electrical work, call a professional electrician to avoid costly and dangerous mistakes and ensure electrical safety.