Benjamin Franklin was born on this day in 1706. He is credited with discovering electricity by flying his kite in a thunderstorm. Today many homeowners are still "discovering" electricity (when loose wires come in contact with conductors like their fingers). This can and should be prevented by checking connections whenever removing or replacing switches and plugs or any device where wire is secured under a screw. All screws on electrical devices are right-handed, meaning, when you're facing the screw, turn to the right (or clockwise) to tighten it. Turning it left (or counterclockwisw) will loosen it. Be sure wires are properly looped around the body of the screw -- also in a clockwise direction, so when the screw is tightened it will also tighten the loop. Never use stranded wire under a screw. It's not allowed by the National Electrical Code and is very unsafe. If in doubt, call an electrician. And that's the On The House tip for today.