If the electrical device you're working on doesn't unplug, make sure the power is turned off to the circuit you're working on.

1. Make sure the power source is disconnected before working on any electrical or gas system.
2. Turn the water off ahead of the fixture before working on plumbing.
3. Wear gloves if using caustic chemicals.
4. Wear safety glasses if using a saw blade or any tool that can throw debris.
5. Wear a breathing mask if working around dust or strong chemicals.
6. Never place a body part where it can get hurt.
7. Don't use a tool for any task but its intended purpose.
8. Don't stand on something that won't support you.
9. Don't try to fix anything when your thinking is impaired by lack of sleep, emotional stress, alcohol, medications, or illness.
10. Plan it before you do it.

Aluminum wiring was used in home construction during the 1960s and early 1970s—until it was discovered that its interaction with copper and brass electrical terminals was causing some house fires! The metals expand and contract at different rates and the aluminum wire was pulling away from the copper terminals. How can you tell if your house has aluminum wiring instead of copper? Aluminum wire is dull gray or silver; copper wire is dull orange. "AL" may be imprinted on the wire sheathing (covering). What can you do about it? You may want an electrician to upgrade your home's wiring with new aluminum-compatible connectors or by adding copper pigtail wires to the end of all electrical connections. You may be able to do it yourself, but do so under the direction of a licensed electrician.