Much like our blood vessels that transport blood from the heart throughout our body, cables and cords distribute the electricity from a power source to our computer networks, entertainment systems, home lights-virtually all electronics we use. In modern life, cables are virtually everywhere. However, if not properly managed, those electrical cables can become a fatal danger. 

With all the electronics we use at home and in the office today, cables and cords can easily add up. Usually, these cords end up in a tangled mess that clutters up space. But more than being unsightly, improperly maintained cables and cords can pose a safety hazard. Therefore, the proper management of cables is integral in ensuring that your home not only stays tidy and efficient but also safe for all your family members. Read on and find out how cable management can keep your home safe.

Reduce Tripping Hazards

If you haven’t slipped or fallen on loose wires lying on the floor, good for you! But somebody might not be that lucky. Kids and the elderly are particularly vulnerable in case of injury from slips, trips, and falls, many of which are caused by trailing cables. Fixing up your cable setup also reduces tripping hazards. If you spruce up your cables at home, this will reduce the odds of a child messing with them and accidentally injuring themselves. 

Decrease Fire Hazards

Jumbled cables are huge safety hazards for several reasons. For one, disorganized cords are more likely to overheat. Unconcealed wires are more likely to get exposed to high risks. For example, when the wiring deteriorates, it leaves bits of live wire exposed. As many of us know, exposed wire creates a fire hazard. An aging system with worn-out insulation that leaves wires exposed is vulnerable to power surges, overheating, shorting out, and encountering other elements in the wall that can cause a fire.

Improve Equipment Longevity

With a more thoughtfully managed cable setup, your wires will experience less bending, dust accumulation, and overheating. All these factors contribute to a shorter lifespan for most cables, making it essential to minimize their presence when possible. By organizing your cables, you’re sure to get the most out of your equipment investments.

Protect Kids from Playing with Wires

if you have children — especially small ones — at home, you definitely should rein in those cables and get them back in control. You need to take extra precaution, because those excess cords can loop around children’s legs or feet, causing them to stumble — or, worse, pull electronics down on them. The risk of getting an electric shock from worn cables is also a real concern. 

Protects Pets from Chewing the Cables

Dogs, as part of growing up, chew on things for a number of reasons. Teething, separation anxiety, boredom, or even they just haven’t been trained out of it yet. If you have pets at your home, pay attention. Cords and wires are dangerous for pets. Dogs are the most common culprit when it comes to wire gnawing, but they aren’t the only ones responsible. And chewing on wires is dangerous. They are at risk of electric shock and even choking. 

4 Easy-to-do Cable Management Tips for a Safe Home

Run them through ducts and raceways.

Raceways, wiring ducts, and covers are a favorite among the available cable management solutions today. They are especially good for hiding thick cables and messy cords.

Cable raceways, ducts, and covers come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. A number of them can work with furniture and tables. Others can be used for running cables over the floor. Some types can be installed on the walls and ceilings like crown molding. The best part is, they’re very easy to use and can be installed without power tools. Simply stick them into place and voila! You can easily remove and add cables into your raceways or ducts over time.

Tuck them under the table

Although not completely hidden, under-desk cable racks and trays can be a great alternative for your cable organization. You can simply place there all the cables connected to your desk gadgets and easily access them. But if you hate tangled cords, you may want to take some time to separate and clear a path for each cable in the rack. A desk cable management tray is useful to hide the power strip and plug, hold unused cables in place and make you easily identify the cables. 

Use Cable Ties

When doing electrical work, there’s nothing worse than encountering cables or wires that are tangled or disorganized. With electrical cable ties, you can keep those cables and wires securely fastened to create order from chaos. Electrical ties can also extend the life of your wiring work, protecting it from frays and damage.

Check, check, and check again

As long as we have electricity running through our homes, the possibility of having safety mishaps is ever-present. So when it comes to our electrical systems, we can never be too careful. And a great way to maintain our home’s electrical safety is to conduct thorough, regular inspections. Always remember to inspect all cables and wiring for signs of damage, degradation, or overheating. If you see any cracked, loose, or frayed cords, replace them immediately.