Electrical Safety Tips

Electricity Safety at Home

  • Check electric cords often for damage. Have damaged cords repaired right away. Worn cords can cause shock, short circuit or fire.
  • Pull the plastic housing of the electric plug to take it out of the wall socket; never pull on the cord.
  • Do not overload electric outlets with too many items plugged in at once.
  • Water and electricity do not mix. Do not operate electric appliances such as radios or hair dryers near a bathtub or sink full of water.
  • Never stick your fingers, toys or anything except electric plugs into electric outlets.
  • Unplug any appliance that emits sparks or that does not work properly.
  • Always unplug an appliance before cleaning or repairing it.
  • Always unplug the toaster or other appliance when removing a piece of stuck food.
  • Remember that a turned-off appliance is still connected to electricity until it is unplugged.
  • Limit use of extension cords. Make sure the cord is the appropriate size for use. Some appliances or equipment require heavy-duty cords.

Electricity Safety Outdoors

  • Never fly kites near overhead power lines. If your kite becomes caught in the lines, let it go. You could get a bad shock or be electrocuted.
  • Go inside during thunderstorms. It is very dangerous to stay outside when there is lightning. If you get caught outside, squat low to the ground allowing only your shoes, which act like insulators, to touch the ground.
  • Always wear closed-toe shoes when operating an electric lawnmower or hedge clippers.
  • Never use electric appliances outside in the rain or on wet surfaces.
  • Stay away from electrical equipment, such as substations, transformer boxes and electric poles.
  • Be aware of the location of power lines when using an extension ladder and long-handled tools such as swimming pool nets and tree-trimmers.

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