Always Play It Safe Around Electricity

Electricity is an integral part of today's modern world, and sometimes it is easy to forget just how dangerous it can be. Electrical hazards can cause burns, shocks and death. The National Safety Council estimates 600 people die each year of electrical causes.

Outdoor Tips

• Assume that all overhead wires are energized at lethal voltages. Never assume that a wire is safe to touch even if it is down or appears to be insulated. Never touch a fallen overhead power line. Call the electric utility company to report fallen electrical lines.

• If an overhead wire falls across your vehicle while you are driving, stay inside the vehicle and continue to drive away from the line. If the engine stalls, do not leave your vehicle. Warn people not to touch the vehicle or the wire. Call or ask someone to call the local electric utility company and emergency services.

• Never repair electrical cords or equipment unless qualified and authorized.

• Have a qualified electrician inspect electrical equipment that has gotten wet before energizing it.

• Always use caution when working near electricity.

At Home

• Unplug unused appliances and stow cords safely out of reach of pets, young children or hazardous situations.

• Appliances that generate heat, such as clocks, televisions and computer monitors, should be given several inches of clearance all around for good air circulation and cooling. Do not drape clothes, toys or other items over warm appliances.

• Always follow appliance instructions carefully, and do not attempt amateur repairs or upgrades.

• Keep all electrical appliances away from water such as sinks, bathtubs, pools or overhead vents that may drip.

• Do not operate any electrical appliance with wet hands or while standing in water.

• Keep clothes, curtains, toys and other potentially combustible materials at least three feet away from radiators, space heaters, heating vents and other heat sources.

Around Swimming Pools and Boat Docks

• While regulations might vary by location, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that electricity-related drowning can be prevented by regular inspections for ground-fault failure and by strict enforcement of the National Electric Code through frequent inspections of pools and docks.

• Ensure safety around boat docks and swimming pools by including ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection.

• Make sure the GFCI is professionally installed to prevent shock, electrocution and injury.

• Dockside electrical systems should be installed by professional electricians guided by National Electric Code.

• Inspect regularly to avoid tragedy.

• Boat wiring should be in compliance with American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards.

• Get more information at SafeElectricity.org

Fact Sheets

• Be Safe Around Electricity
• Trees and Power Lines
• Be Prepared In Case Of An Emergency