Use a Surge Protector or UPS
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Our power systems are prone to spikes, sags, noise and interruptions. Phone lines can also be susceptible to surges. You want to protect your computer and modem from these outside electrical elements.
At the least, you should route your power and phone service through a surge protector. This device will help protect your computer and modem from sudden high voltages on your lines. For protection against outages, you might choose a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) device, which will keep your computer running for a few minutes during a power outage. This window of time will allow you to save your work and shut down your computer safely.
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Unplug Your Computer During Storms
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During storms where there is thunder and lightning, shut off your computer and unplug it both from the power source and the phone jack in the wall. This will protect your computer should lightning strike phone or power lines in your neighborhood.
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Keep Drinks Away From Your Computer
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You should never place beverages or other liquids on your computer equipment where the danger of spillage could occur.
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Don’t Smoke Near Your Computer
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Residue from cigarette smoke can cloud the surface of your monitor and smoke can get into your computer corroding the computer chips inside.
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Turn Off Your Monitor When Away From Computer
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When leaving your computer on but unattended, turn off the monitor. Monitors generate high voltage internally, which has the potential to start an electrical fire, or trigger an explosion in a combustible atmosphere.
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Back Up Your Computer
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It is important to back up your files regularly in case anything does happen to your computer. This way, important data or information is not lost. You can write your files to CD, floppy disks or a zip disk for later retrieval.
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