Yes, spring is considered the ideal time for an electrical inspection in the U.S. It allows homeowners to address damage from winter's harsh weather—such as moisture and freezing that damages wiring—before summer's high energy demand, thunderstorms, and increased air conditioner usage begin.
Wilcox Electric
Wilcox Electric
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Why Spring is Optimal:
Repairs Post-Winter: Cold weather makes wires brittle, while ice and snow can cause structural damage to exterior electrical components, which an inspection can catch early, says Wilcox Electric.
Storm Prep: Spring is the best time to install or check surge protection and ensure electrical systems are secure before summer storms and lightning risk arrive, as discussed by Liberty Comfort Systems.
Improved Access: Mild spring weather offers safer and more comfortable access for technicians to inspect exterior areas, attics, and crawlspaces, according to The WireNut.
High-Load Season Prep: Air conditioners, pool pumps, and other high-energy devices are used heavily in summer. A spring check helps identify if your electrical panel can handle this load, says cajunelectricbr.com.
Wilcox Electric
Wilcox Electric
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A, Residential Electrician - Birmingham, AL and McCarthy Electric state that a professional inspection, which should be conducted every 3-5 years, focuses on checking outlets, upgrading outdated wiring, testing GFCIs, and ensuring the main panel is secure.

Electrical Safety Checks: Why Spring is the Perfect Time for a Professional Inspection
Spring is a season of renewal, both outdoors and inside your home. As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, many homeowners take the opportunity to refresh and reset their living spaces. While cleaning out closets and tidying up gardens is essential, looking behind the walls is just as vital—at your home’s electrical system. Incorporating electrical safety checks into your spring routine ensures that your home remains a safe and functional haven as you embrace the new season.
Electrical safety checks during spring offer a practical way to prevent problems before they start. Your electrical system may be under strain after a long winter of heavy energy usage. Minor issues can develop slowly and silently. A professional inspection ensures that your wiring, outlets, and electrical panel operate safely and efficiently.

Electrical Systems Can Hide Problems
Most homeowners rarely think about their electrical systems unless something goes wrong. Unlike plumbing or heating systems, electrical components often show no signs of trouble until failure occurs.

Wiring can become brittle or damaged over time. Outlets might lose their grip or show signs of wear. Circuit breakers could be close to their limit. And older fuse panels may not meet the energy demands of today’s devices.

These issues don’t always start with a spark or flicker. They build quietly over months or years. Regular electrical safety checks help catch these problems before they become dangerous or expensive.

Seasonal changes also matter. During winter, cold weather and increased indoor living put additional stress on your home’s electrical system. Spring is the right time to reset and ensure everything performs safely.

Why Spring is the Ideal Season for Electrical Safety Checks
Spring offers the perfect window for scheduling electrical inspections. With warmer, drier weather, electricians have better access to indoor and outdoor components.

Many homeowners begin outdoor projects during the spring. Whether installing lighting, adding a hot tub, or upgrading your deck, you’ll want a safe electrical foundation before starting.

Inside the home, spring is a time when heating use declines and cooling needs begin to rise. That shift in energy consumption creates an ideal point to assess the condition of your electrical system. You’re not at the peak of winter or summer energy usage, which makes this a natural break to evaluate performance and safety.

Another reason spring is so well-suited for electrical safety checks is timing. Catching an issue now gives you time to address it before extreme weather sets in. Summer storms can lead to outages or surges, and older systems are especially vulnerable. Fixing minor problems today avoids the risk of breakdowns tomorrow.

Professional Help Makes All the Difference
Electrical work requires more than just a visual inspection. A licensed electrician understands how your system functions as a whole.

During an inspection, a professional will test connections, evaluate load distribution, check for signs of overheating, and ensure code compliance. They use specialized tools and training to detect issues the untrained eye will miss.

Electrical safety checks done by a professional go far beyond flipping breakers or checking outlets. The goal is to confirm that every part of your system works safely and that no hidden risks are present.

It’s also the only way to ensure your system meets today’s safety standards. Codes evolve, and what was acceptable twenty years ago may not be safe today. Inspections reveal where upgrades are necessary to protect your home and family.

A Safer, More Reliable Home
A home electrical inspection in spring isn’t just about fixing problems. It’s about creating a safer, more efficient space to live in.

First, there’s peace of mind. Knowing your electrical system has passed a detailed inspection helps you sleep better at night. You’re less likely to face unexpected shutdowns, fire risks, or damaged electronics.

Next, there’s efficiency. Older or overloaded systems use more energy and often perform less reliably. A safe, balanced electrical system helps appliances run better and lowers your energy costs.

You’ll also be ready for future improvements. Whether considering renovations or new installations, an inspection helps ensure your current wiring can handle it. If not, your electrician can recommend practical, phased upgrades.

Home insurance is easier to obtain or less expensive when you have recent electrical safety check documentation. Many insurers ask for proof that your system meets modern safety standards, especially in older homes.

Why Finan Home Service is the Right Partner This Spring
Finan Home Service has served homeowners in London, Ontario, for decades. We understand the local climate, housing styles, and safety standards. Our team of licensed electricians is experienced in identifying potential issues and offering straightforward, expert solutions.

We don’t rush inspections or offer generic advice. Each home is different, and we take the time to assess your unique electrical setup. Our professionals test, evaluate, and report with clarity. You’ll know exactly what’s working and where improvements could help.

Finan Home Service also values customer care. We’re a family-owned company, and that shapes the way we do business. You’ll get honest recommendations, respectful service, and clear communication from start to finish.

Whether you live in a newer build or an older home with legacy systems, our team has the expertise to inspect, repair, or upgrade your electrical system. And we do it with your comfort and safety in mind. Read more.

Let’s Make This Spring Your Safest Season Yet
Electrical safety checks are one of the most brilliant things you can do for your home this spring. They offer reassurance, prevent costly problems, and create a foundation for future improvements.

Now is the right time to act. Before summer brings higher energy demands or unexpected weather events, let our team ensure your system is ready.

Spring Electrical Safety Checklist
Spring is a good time to check your home’s electrical system. After a cold winter, outlets, cords, and panels can show wear that needs attention before the busy season starts.

Delaware’s humid springs and frequent nor’easters put extra stress on outdoor wiring, GFCI outlets, and service lines. A quick walkthrough now can prevent bigger problems later.

What Is a Spring Electrical Safety Checklist?
A spring electrical safety checklist is a room-by-room review of your home’s outlets, cords, panel, and safety devices. It helps you spot small issues before they become serious ones.

This isn’t about doing electrical work yourself. It’s about knowing what to look for, what’s normal, and when to call a licensed electrician.

Why Do Delaware Homeowners Need One Every Spring?
Delaware’s weather is tough on electrical systems. Freezing temps, moisture, and storm activity can damage outdoor wiring, corrode fixtures, and stress your panel over winter.

Homes in Wilmington, Dover, and the surrounding areas — especially those built between the 1950s and 1980s — often have older wiring that benefits from a seasonal check. Running through a home electrical safety checklist each spring is one of the simplest electrical safety tips for homeowners to follow.

How Do You Check Outdoor Outlets and Wiring?
Start outside on a dry day. Test every exterior outlet using a GFCI tester. Press the test button — the power should cut. Press reset — it should restore. If the outlet sticks or doesn’t respond, replace it.

Look at porch lights, flood lights, and landscape fixtures for rust, moisture inside the lens, or flickering. These are early signs of electrical problems in a house that most people overlook.

Check that all outdoor wiring — for pumps, pond features, or garden lights — is rated for outdoor use and isn’t pinched, exposed, or buried without conduit.

What Should You Look for With Extension Cords and Lawn Tools?
Inspect every cord you plan to use this spring. Look for cuts, frayed insulation, and loose plugs. If a cord has visible damage, replace it.

Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords (12 to 14 gauge) for lawn mowers, trimmers, and pressure washers. Never daisy-chain cords or run them through standing water.

Route cords away from walkways to prevent tripping, and store them indoors when you’re done. This is one of the most practical electrical safety tips for homeowners with active yards.

How Do You Handle Utility Lines and Storm Safety?
Stay at least 10 feet back from your service drop and meter when doing any yard work. If tree branches are close to utility lines, call Delmarva Power or Delaware Electric Cooperative — don’t try to trim them yourself.

Keep your meter area clear of vines, nests, and debris. Make sure the seal on your meter is intact.

After any spring storm, treat downed lines as live. Stay back, take a photo from a safe distance if needed, and call 911 or your utility hotline right away.

What Does a Good Indoor Electrical Walkthrough Cover?
Walk through each room and test a sample of outlets using a plug-in tester. A green light means the outlet is wired correctly. If an outlet feels warm to the touch or a plug sits loose in the socket, stop using it and note it for an electrician.

Check switches by flipping them a few times. Chattering, sparking, or warmth around a dimmer switch are signs of electrical problems in a house that need professional attention.

Large appliances like refrigerators and dryers should each have a dedicated circuit. Running a microwave and fridge on the same outlet can cause trips — and repeated trips mean the circuit is overloaded.

In the basement and garage, make sure your sump pump and dehumidifier are on GFCI-protected outlets. Test the sump float switch before heavy rains hit.

Also Read: Why Is My AC Blowing Warm Air? Common Summer AC Problems in Delaware Homes

How Do You Check Your Electrical Panel?
Look at the outside of your panel first. Rust, a burning plastic smell, or buzzing sounds are red flags. If you notice any of these, shut off the main breaker and call a licensed electrician.

Don’t open the panel or touch internal wiring unless you’re qualified. What you can do: Label every breaker clearly by room and appliance, and make sure the panel is easy to access in an emergency.

If your home has a Federal Pacific panel from the 1960s, that’s a known fire risk. A full panel replacement is worth getting a quote on.


What Safety Devices Should You Test This Spring?
Test every smoke and carbon monoxide detector using the test button. A five-second alarm means it’s working. Replace batteries in any unit that chirps. Replace the entire device if it’s more than 10 years old.

Under Delaware’s current electrical code (based on NEC 2023), all wet-area outlets — kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, garages, basements, and outdoor circuits — must have GFCI protection. If yours don’t, that’s an upgrade worth scheduling.

Consider adding whole-home surge protection at the panel, especially heading into spring thunderstorm season. It protects your HVAC, appliances, and electronics from voltage spikes.

Also Read: A Common Cause of Poor Airflow and Why it Matters

When Should You Call an Electrician?
Knowing when to call an electrician is just as important as the inspection itself. Call a licensed pro if you notice two or more breakers tripping in a single day, lights dimming when the AC kicks on, a burning or fishy smell near outlets, or any outlet with scorch marks or sparking.

If your home is 40 or more years old and has never had a formal electrical inspection, we recommend scheduling one now. Older wiring types like knob-and-tube or aluminum branch circuits need evaluation by someone qualified.

A standard electrical inspection in Delaware runs $150 to $250. A GFCI replacement is around $125 per outlet. These are manageable costs compared to what a wiring issue can become if it goes unnoticed.

How Do You Make This Checklist Work for You?
Break the Spring Electrical Safety Checklist into three weekends. Spend the first on outdoor checks and cord inspections. Use the second for your interior walkthrough and panel review. On the third, test your safety devices and follow up on anything you flagged.

Take photos of any issues you find, note the date, and share the list with your household. If you need a licensed electrician, check verifydelaware.gov to confirm credentials before hiring.

A home electrical safety checklist doesn’t need to take a whole day. A couple of hours done right can give you a clear picture of where things stand — and what, if anything, needs professional attention.

Conclusion
Spring is the perfect time to give your home’s electrical system a thorough check. From inspecting outlets and testing GFCIs to checking outdoor wiring and ensuring your panel is up to date, a proactive approach can prevent hazards before they become serious issues. Small fixes now can save you from costly repairs — or dangerous situations — later in the year.
If you notice anything unusual or prefer a professional to handle it, you don’t have to take risks. Our team offers reliable, prompt electrical repair services to keep your home safe and running smoothly. Schedule a service today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your electrical system is in expert hands.

Spring Electrical Prep: Address Common Wiring Issues Early
Spring is a season of renewal and rejuvenation, and it’s the perfect time to address any lingering electrical issues within your home. Ignoring these problems could lead to safety hazards or costly repairs in the future. Let’s delve into why spring is an optimal time to tackle electrical wiring issues and how WireNut Home Services can assist you in ensuring your home’s electrical system is in top condition.

Why Address Electrical Wiring Issues in Spring?
The transition from winter to spring is ideal for maintenance checks. During winter, extreme temperatures and increased heating demand can strain your electrical system. Identifying and rectifying any problems early can prevent unexpected disruptions. A customer named Jeremy Langford commented on the thorough analysis and efficient resolution of his electrical problems by WireNut, illustrating that prompt attention can make a significant difference.

Moreover, spring’s mild weather offers a comfortable environment for technicians to work outdoors or in less convenient spaces like attics or crawlspaces, which might require ventilation improvements addressed during inspections.

Common Electrical Issues to Watch For
Frayed or Damaged Wires
Cold weather can make wires brittle, leading to potential breaks. Residents of older homes should be particularly vigilant as natural wear and tear over the years might have weakened their wiring. A satisfied customer, Shelly H., had a similar issue addressed promptly and thoroughly by WireNut technicians, ensuring her safety and peace of mind.

Overloaded Circuits
The use of multiple heating appliances in winter can lead to overloaded circuits, which might not be immediately apparent until the fire risk increases. Our technicians specialize in evaluating your circuit loads to prevent such occurrences. As one customer, Jared, expertly assessed and upgraded Rich B.’s old electrical outlets to prevent sparking[5], WireNut Home Services can ensure your circuits are safe and efficient.

Inefficient Panels
An outdated electrical panel might not handle your home’s modern energy demands efficiently. Spring is the best time to upgrade these panels to prevent outages. Johnny, a WireNut technician, was highly recommended for his thorough and efficient work in resolving electrical inefficiencies.

The Benefits of Choosing WireNut Home Services
Expertise and Customer Satisfaction
Customers have frequently praised WireNut for its professional and knowledgeable staff. Our technicians, like Brian, who received accolades for his professionalism and attention to detail, embody the reliability and skill that WireNut guarantees.

Comprehensive Service Options
WireNut provides flexible service options tailored to your specific needs and efficiently communicated by technicians like Shane, who clearly explained electrical issues and their resolutions.

Outstanding Customer Feedback
We pride ourselves on glowing customer reviews and repeat business. Petra Allen mentioned how Steven from WireNut not only fixed immediate problems but also educated her on future improvements[0]. This education-first approach ensures customers feel informed and confident in the solutions provided.

Schedule Your Spring Electrical Check Now
As spring arrives, take the opportunity to address any electrical issues early. By choosing WireNut Home Services, you are opting for a hassle-free, high-quality service that prioritizes your home’s safety and efficiency.

Benefits of Electrical Inspections Before Spring Storm Season
Temperatures get much warmer during the spring in Minnesota. As winter snow melts, powerful storms often sweep across the state. Harsh weather conditions can pose a major hazard to your electrical system. Booking an inspection is one of the best ways to ensure your system is ready for spring storms.

What to Expect During Minnesota Spring Storms
Spring storms can drop heavy amounts of rainfall. When you mix higher moisture with strong winds and lightning strikes, your electrical system becomes vulnerable to serious damage.

Power Outages From High Winds and Lightning
One of the worst parts of spring storms is the winds they create, which can topple trees into power lines. A single downed line may cause a neighborhood-wide outage. Lightning strikes can also result in outages when they damage transformers or disrupt power grids. Short outages may seem minor, but they increase the risk of power surges and voltage fluctuations in your electrical system. As the power cycles on and off, it puts extra strain on the wiring and connected appliances.

Power Surges That Damage Electronics
Voltage changes from power outages often flow through the entire home. Many of your plugged-in appliances and electronics are sensitive to these fluctuations. For example, a power surge can damage a computer’s internal components. Having proper surge protection in place is crucial to safeguarding your electrical devices.

Moisture-Related Breaker Trips
All of the moisture produced during spring storms has to go somewhere. If the exterior panels of your home have cracks or gaps, this moisture may seep inside wall cavities or electrical components. It can also enter outdoor outlets, causing shorts or corrosion. If it gets into your electrical panel, it can cause circuits to trip or produce dangerous electrical faults.

Electrical Risks in Flooded Basements
Minnesota’s normal thaw cycle, combined with spring storms, can be especially problematic for basement flooding. If standing water reaches your outlets or electrical wiring, it can permanently damage them. It may also cause unsafe conditions due to the risk of electrical shock.

Damaged Service Lines and Meter Boxes
The service lines and meter connections on your property are also vulnerable to spring storms. Ice from winter can loosen components and corrode metal fittings. When a meter connection is damaged by shifting ice or high winds, you may notice flickering lights or inconsistent power inside the home.

What Happens During an Electrical Inspection?
We recommend scheduling an electrical inspection before each spring storm season. This gives us time to remedy any loose connections or worn components.

Visual Inspection of the Main Electrical Panel
The main panel serves as the command center for all of your home’s electrical components. When we perform an inspection, we look for the following warning signs:

Loose or corroded connections
Overheated or discolored breakers
Signs of moisture intrusion
Improper wire terminations
Breaker panel overcrowding
Scorch marks or burning
If we spot any worn breakers, loose bus bars or damaged wiring, we repair or replace them with new, energy-efficient materials. The earlier we spot problems, the easier it is to save money on costly panel repairs. Plus, resolving potential hazards before storm season ensures your home stays safe and powered when you need it most.

Testing Circuit Breakers and GFCI Protection
Next, we test all of the circuit breakers to ensure they trip during an overload or short circuit. If your home lacks proper ground fault protection, we can install GFCI outlets. These outlets are particularly important in moisture-prone areas, including your kitchen, bathrooms and laundry areas. They deliver enhanced shock protection during storms and flooding.

Checking for Storm-Related Water Intrusion
The inspection also entails checking your home for areas that are prone to water exposure. We want to make sure all outlets, junction boxes, and basement wiring are adequately sealed. If we see any weak points, like cracked conduit or loose fittings, we’ll fix them with weather-resistant materials and secure connections.

Inspecting Exterior Service Lines and Meter Base
There’s a service line that connects your home with the local utility grid. It may be above or below ground. Storm season can strain the power grid, leading to unstable power delivery. During the inspection, we examine all of the attachment points and the integrity of the conduit. We may need to reinforce certain areas to ensure secure connections through high winds.

Evaluating Surge Protection and Grounding Systems
Storm season makes proper grounding all the more important. We inspect grounding rods, bonding connections and surge protection devices for proper installation and corrosion. You won’t have to fret about dangerous voltage spikes or the risk of shock. We tighten connections, replace corroded components and verify grounding continuity.

Assessing Wiring for Wind or Debris Damage
There’s quite a bit of exterior wiring that connects to your electrical system. For example, there’s likely wiring running along exterior walls, under eaves and to outdoor fixtures. During storms, this wiring is susceptible to water intrusion and debris impact from winds. We check all wiring for fraying, cracked insulation, and loose connections during the inspection. The electrician may suggest weatherproof conduit upgrades to prep the home for severe weather.

Why Spring Is a Good Time for Electrical Upgrades
Springtime often has several windows of beautiful weather that work perfectly for making electrical improvements around the house. The steps you take today can make a big difference in how well your electrical system holds up during the next storm.

Upgrade Your Surge Protection Before Storm Season
Adding a whole-home surge protector is a smart move for fortifying your electrical system. This type of protection connects to your electrical panel and provides coverage across every circuit and connected device. When a storm rolls around, you get the advantage of layered surge protection for the entire house.

Replace Outdated Electrical Panels
When was the last time you upgraded your electrical panel? If it’s been more than 25 years, it’s probably time for a replacement. We’ll carefully evaluate your home’s electrical load and overall system capacity to help you select a panel that offers extra protection for storms. Installing one with a higher amp rating and built-in surge protection provides greater reliability and improved safety.

Install Whole-Home Generator Systems
Adding a whole-home generator makes it simple to keep the lights on during an outage. This investment is especially appealing to households that require continuous power for medical equipment or home businesses.

Spring is the Perfect Time for a Whole Home Electrical Inspection
Spring is in the air! As the season of decluttering, scrubbing, and refreshing kicks into high gear, it's also the perfect time to consider the unseen essentials that keep your household running, like your electrical system. It's easy to remember to wipe down baseboards and sweep under beds, but critical infrastructure can easily be overlooked until it malfunctions. Getting ahead of any potential issues and investing in thoughtful upgrades is a great way to avoid surprise expenses, outages, and other potentially inconvenient or unsafe situations.

Out with the Old, In with the New

Spring's mild weather makes it an ideal time for an in-depth electrical inspection. With harsh winter conditions in the rearview mirror, electricians can easily access all areas of your home for a comprehensive overview of your system's condition. This includes outdoor areas, which can be covered in ice or snow during winter.

Speaking of harsh winter weather, knowing its potential to do a real number on your home's electrical system is important. Cold weather and moisture can cause wear-and- tear on wires and other outdoor components; a spring inspection helps you identify and fix these issues before they become major problems.

It's also vital to get ahead of spring and summer thunderstorms to ensure your home is equipped with proper surge protection. A whole-home electrical inspection is the best way to identify any vulnerabilities so you can implement solutions custom-designed to protect your home and electronics from power surges.

Spring into Better Energy with a Whole Home Electrical Inspection
Who doesn't want to save money while minimizing their environmental impact? A whole-home electrical inspection can also reveal inefficiencies within your electrical system. The rapid pace of advancement and innovation in home technology means a knowledgeable professional can suggest impactful opportunities for electrical upgrades. From installing smart home devices to updating your lighting system, spring is a great time to boost functionality, comfort, and energy efficiency in your home.

What Does a Whole Home Electrical Inspection Entail?
A comprehensive inspection by an expert electrician includes:

Visual Inspection:

Examining the electrical service panel (circuit breaker box) for any signs of damage, rust, or overheating.
Checking for proper labeling of circuits and ensuring no overloading is present.
Inspecting outlets and switches for damage, wear, and proper grounding.
Looking for exposed wiring, improper connections, and any potential fire hazards.
Electrical System Testing:

Testing voltage levels at various outlets and circuits to ensure they are within safe tolerances.
Utilizing specialized equipment to measure ground fault current path (grounding integrity).
Performing load calculations to determine if circuits are overloaded or the overall electrical capacity needs upgrading.
Testing GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets and AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breakers, if present, to ensure proper functionality.
Safety Hazard Identification:

Identifying any potential safety hazards like aluminum wiring (if applicable), knob-and-tube wiring (if applicable), and ungrounded outlets.
Checking for signs of arcing, overheating, or corrosion that could indicate potential electrical problems.
Assessing the overall safety of the electrical system based on current codes and standards.
Documentation and Recommendations:

Providing a detailed report outlining the findings of the inspection, including any identified hazards or areas requiring attention.
Offering clear recommendations for repairs, upgrades, or replacements necessary to bring the electrical system up to code and ensure safety.
Prioritizing any urgent repairs that need to be addressed immediately. Don't just focus on dusting off shelves and cleaning out the closets this spring. Extend your spring cleaning to include a vital check of your home's electrical system.

Why You Should Schedule an Electrical Inspection This Spring
As the seasons shift, so do the demands on your home’s electrical system. While winter may have put a strain on heaters and holiday lighting, spring signals rising energy use from air conditioners, ceiling fans and outdoor appliances.


Before we enter the sweltering days of summer, the spring season is the ideal time to make sure your system is up to the task. A routine electrical inspection can catch small issues before they turn into costly problems, keeping your home safe, efficient and ready for warmer days ahead.



Address Winter Damages & Prep for Summer Demands
Your electrical system works hard year-round, but winter weather can take a toll. Spring is an ideal time to inspect for damage caused by storms, moisture or fluctuating temperatures. From checking outdoor outlets to inspecting panel boxes and wiring, a professional inspection ensures that everything is functioning safely and efficiently before the peak of summer demand hits.

Uncover Hidden Hazards
Not all electrical problems are easy to spot. A professional inspection can uncover outdated wiring, overloaded circuits or grounding issues that may go unnoticed – until they cause serious harm. Catching these early helps protect you and those inside of your property from potential fire and shock risks.

Improve Efficiency & Performance
Small inefficiencies in your electrical system can lead to higher energy bills and underperforming appliances. An inspection ensures everything is running as it should, so your system uses less energy and delivers better, more consistent performance.

Extend the Lifespan of Appliances
Overloaded circuits and voltage fluctuations can shorten the life of your appliances. An inspection helps protect your investment and keep your everyday essentials running longer by identifying and correcting issues early.

Ensure Your Property is Up to Code
Electrical codes change, and what was acceptable a few years ago may not meet current safety standards. An inspection confirms that your electrical system is up to code – an important step whether you’re planning a renovation, selling your home or just keeping things safe.