Whether it is electrical or electronic, all appliances come with cutting edge inbuilt safety standards. Safety features differ from one brand to another, but almost all brands follow certain general safety measures. This includes low resistance earth, to protect the user from getting a shock from electricity. Those electrical appliances without earth will have double insulation to avoid electrical shocks. Appliances like toasters, kettles and hair dryers come with different types of switch technologies that detect any fault in the appliances and cut the power supply automatically. Popular brands such as Electrolux and Whirlpool come with different type of child safety features. There are safety features that include dryers that have a latch on the inside door that protect children from being locked inside, and some ovens are equipped with locks on the outside of the door to prevent children from opening a lit oven.
In spite of all the safety built in features, one has to be cautious when using appliances. Never touch metal or stand in water while using electrical appliances. Check cords, outlets and switches of the appliances at regular intervals. Always turn off the electrical appliances and unplug them when not in use. Some of the most commonly used gas appliances are gas grills, fireplaces, vent free and vented gas logs, lights and more. All gas appliances must be kept in a properly ventilated space. The cooking surface of any gas must be keep free of dust and dirt to prevent dangerous clogging.
Though people are aware of all these safety features, they do not pay much attention. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has estimated that each year more than a thousand people get injured by electrical or gas appliances. This is mainly caused because people overlook safety features.
It is recommended to check for the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) seal of approval before purchasing any appliance. This is a confirmation that the appliances are tested for safety.
