Even "Do-it-Yourselfers" working on their own home have a legal and moral obligation to install safe, reliable, and sound electrical systems. All electrical work must comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC), state and local codes. Know what applies to your project. Get a permit, if needed.

No one ever died working on de-energized equipment. Always turn off the power when working on electrical systems. My dear Dad, best electrician I know, had his own Rule Number One, "Check The Panel". If something isn't working, check the panel to make sure the breaker is on. If you are working on something, check the panel to make sure the breaker is off. Good rules to live by, literally.

Things I have seen (and they really make me nervous!).

Electrical Panels that are not labeled. It's pretty tough to turn off a circuit if you don't know which one it is.

Large wattage light bulbs in light fixtures. Use only the rated lamp for a light fixture. Putting a 100 watt lamp in a light fixture rated for 60 watts is asking for a fire.

Splices made up and not in an electrical box. Another good fire source.

Things not grounded. Ground those devices and parts. This is especially true of: receptacles, light fixtures, fans, motors, appliances like garbage disposals, dishwashers, ranges, etc. All will have a specific place to ground to such as a green ground screw.

Ground prongs cut off of electrical cords

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