Start at your electrical panel and check for:

• Is the panel easily accessible, with at least 3 feet of clear space in front?
• Are all circuit breakers properly labeled?
• Do any breakers feel loose or fail to stay in the on position?
• Is there any sign of rust, corrosion, or burn marks inside the panel?
• Is the panel a known problematic brand (Federal Pacific, Zinsco)?

Walk through each room and check:

• Are any outlets or switch plates warm to the touch?
• Are any outlets cracked, broken, or discolored?
• Do all outlets hold plugs firmly, or do plugs fall out easily?
• Are GFCI outlets installed in bathrooms, kitchen, garage, and outdoor areas?
• Are any outlets overloaded with too many devices or adapters?

Check your electrical cords throughout the home:

• Are any cords frayed, cracked, or damaged?
• Are extension cords being used as permanent wiring?
• Are cords running under rugs or through doorways where they can be damaged?
• Are high-wattage appliances plugged directly into wall outlets rather than extension cords?

Verify your detection systems:

• Is there a working smoke detector on every level of your home?
• Is there a smoke detector inside and outside each sleeping area?
• Are smoke detectors less than 10 years old?
• Are carbon monoxide detectors installed near sleeping areas?
• Have all detectors been tested within the last month?