What is the safest method to de-energize a house before starting an investigation?

The safest method to de-energize a house before starting an investigation is to use the main breaker. This approach ensures that the entire electrical system is isolated from the power source, providing a comprehensive disconnection of electricity to all circuits within the home. By turning off the main breaker, investigators eliminate potential electrical hazards that can arise from live wires, appliances, and fixtures, thus ensuring a safer environment for conducting the investigation.

This method is widely regarded as the best practice because it effectively cuts off power to the entire building at once, minimizing the risk of electrocution or electrical fires during the investigation process. Additionally, using the main breaker is a straightforward procedure that most individuals trained in safety protocols can execute quickly and efficiently.

Pulling the fuse, cutting the power lines, and unplugging appliances are less effective methods. Pulling a fuse may not disconnect the whole system, as it only affects circuits tied to that specific fuse. Cutting power lines is dangerous and not typically within the scope of an investigation unless specifically trained and equipped, posing significant safety risks. Unplugging appliances can leave other circuits live and may not adequately address the potential hazards of other electrical systems still connected in the house. Thus, using the main breaker is the most reliable and safe method