May is National Electrical Safety Month, and it’s a great time to consider how to avoid potential electrical hazards.
Every day, we rely on electricity to power our homes and offices. However, it is important to always be safe around electric appliances, equipment and power lines. Electricity is an essential and dependable resource but
we must all be aware of the serious and sometimes deadly consequences of using electricity unsafely.
By taking simple precautions, everyone can avoid electrically related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss.
OUTDOORS:
- Keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet away from all overhead power lines.
- Stay 50 feet away from any fallen power lines; never touch a downed power line.
- Never touch anything in contact with a power line.
- Always call your local utility or 911 if you see lines d own.
- Watch for overhead lines every time you use a ladder, work on roofs, trees or carry long tools or loads.
- Carry ladders horizontally to reduce the risk of touching power lines.
- Do not spray water or liquid cleaners near electrical service entrance.
- Know what’s below before you dig. At least 3 days before starting any digging or excavating project, call 811, the National One Call Center, to have underground utility lines, pipes and cables marked for free.
- Avoid planting trees underneath power lines or near utility equipment.
- Keep kites, model airplanes, and metallic balloons away from power lines.
SOURCE: Federated S.A.F.E. Talk
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