Check both Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors, testing the units to ensure they're responsive and replacing the batteries.

Check the Outlets and the Electrical Cords on appliances, including the refrigerator, washer, dryer, stove, televisions, computers, devices, and surge protectors. Inspecting the electric cords for fraying, cracks, and damage from heat or age.

Inspect Outdoor Electrical Systems, including the lighting fixtures, wiring, outlets, and panels, making sure to check on the condition of weatherproofing.

Indoor and Outdoor Wiring, check the weatherproofing around the wiring, inspecting the areas where leaves, debris, and weather like rain, snow, and ice could have affected the wiring, outlets, and fixtures. Inside of the home, it is important to check the wiring in locations such as the attic and near the roof where accumulated water can seep in and do damage.

Indoor and Outdoor Lighting Fixtures, to ensure there’s no flickering bulbs, clearing dust and accumulated debris around the lightbulbs, especially in high, hard-to-reach, and outdoor fixtures.

Check the Sump Pump, to ensure it is working and the sump pump circuit is working properly.

Air Conditioning, during the spring or before the summer, turn on the air conditioning to ensure it’s able to cool the home, inspecting the outside (Condensor) AC unit to make sure condensed water around the pipes are not freezing up. It is important to check the connections, and clear all debris around the AC unit to ensure it will work efficiently for the hot summer temps. And speaking of summer, inspect the pool pumps and heaters to prevent summer power overloads.

Generator Testing, to ensure backup generators are fueled up and functioning properly.

GFCI Protection, test all outdoor and wet-area GFCIs, resetting the outlets as needed.

Ceiling Fans, to ensure the mounting is still secure and strong when the fans are turned on, and make sure the lights are working.

Review Surge Protection, install whole-house surge protection to safeguard against power surges from summer storms, especially for home businesses and those who work remotely.

Electrical Panels, visually inspect the panel for rust, discoloration, burn marks, and unusual sounds or buzzing noises.

When to immediately call an electrician:
Outlets or switches that are warm or feel hot to the touch.
Persistent odors or odd smells like burning plastic near outlets or the electrical panel.
Circuit breakers that trip repeatedly under normal use.
Lights that dim significantly when large appliances (such as the furnace) start up.

And remember, if you’re going on vacation, before leaving unplug non-essential electronics like televisions and coffee makers to not only reduce the risk of a fire, but to save energy.