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Electrical Safety

Indoor checklist:

  • I check electrical cords for frays and nicks.
  • I make sure plugs and prongs aren't loose or worn.
  • I don't place cords where they could be tripped over or under rugs.
  • I never use an electric tool or appliance if my hands or feet are wet or if I'm standing in water or on a damp floor.
  • I know where my fuse box or circuit breaker panel is located.
  • I equip my home with a Class "C" fire extinguisher for electrical fires and check it periodically.
  • I never attempt to do home wiring improvements myself. I always call a qualified electrical contractor.
  • I insert specially designed plastic caps in low wall outlets when not in use to protect children from getting an electrical shock.
  • I unplug small appliances immediately after I use them.
  • I look for the Underwriter's Laboratory label on every appliance I buy.
  • I don't risk overloading wall outlets with adapters.
  • I avoid using extension cords for permanent uses.
  • I turnoff, unplug and repair any appliance that sputters, stalls or gives the slightest shock.
  • I teach my children the rules of electrical safety.

Outdoor checklist:

  • I never trim or remove trees near overhead lines.
  • I avoid planting new trees where they might grow into an overhead line.
  • I realize that a tree trimmer, metal ladder or other object can extend my reach dangerously close to overhead lines.
  • I never use electrical tools if my hands or feet are wet or if I'm standing on damp ground.
  • I look up and check clearance from overhead lines in all directions before installing an antenna for TV or radio, or before using a metal ladder.
  • I teach my children never to climb trees near overhead lines.
  • I always fly kites and model airplanes away from overhead lines.
  • I use only non-metal string or cord to fly kites and model airplanes and I never use metal to construct a kite.
  • If a kite or model airplane gets caught in an overhead line, I never attempt to retrieve it. I call my utility to remove it.
  • If I see a broken or fallen overhead line, I assume it's "live" and call my utility as soon as possible.
  • If an overhead line falls on my car, as a result of an accident, I know I'm safe as long as I stay inside the car.
  • If I must exit the car, I jump, being careful not to touch the car and ground at the same time.
  • When making plans to erect new buildings, like grain bins, I locate them a safe distance from overhead lines.
  • I always bring tall farm equipment to its lowest level before moving it.
  • I know that utility poles, fences around electric substations, and transformers on the ground are "off limits" to everyone.

 

Related links:
Lightning Safety
Pool Safety