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Safety Tips

Never touch, kick, pull or attempt to pick up a fallen wire. Contact your local electric cooperative immediately if you see a wire lying on the ground.

When buying electrical equipment or appliances, always look for the Underwriters Laboratories' seal of approval and make sure it applies to the entire appliance, not just the plug or cord.

Check all extension and appliance cords frequently to be sure they are not worn or frayed. If they are, replace them immediately. Don't patch a broken cord.

Do not place electrical cords so they run through doorways or under carpets. Electrical cords should not be draped over radiators, pipes or other metal objects.

Fly kites in open fields, away from electrical wires. Do not use wire, metal or wet string on a kite. If your kite catches on a wire or on a high pole, don't try to remove it -- call your local electric cooperative. Don't use metal in making a kite. Don't fly a kite in wet or stormy weather.

Be sure tools and appliances are properly grounded. A three-prong plug used in a two wire receptacle must have a grounded adapter. Use a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GCFI) whenever in damp locations or outside.

Water conducts electricity. Do not touch an electrical switch while your hands are damp. No electrical cord or appliance should be handled in or near water.

Improper handling of electrical appliances can cause fire. Don't let wires overheat. Disconnect if there are any sparks.

To prevent overheating, make sure the cord is large enough to carry the electricity necessary to operate the tool or appliance. Heavy duty extension cords should be used with portable tools and other heavy duty appliances -- never ordinary lamp cords.

If you have small children, childproof your home against electrical hazards by installing plastic protective caps over your electrical outlets.

Protect your computer and highly sensitive electronic equipment from power surges (slight increases in voltage that may damage sensitive electronic equipment) by installing protective devices. These range from low cost voltage regulators to uninterruptible power supplies.

Celebrate Christmas safely by following the general safety procedures already noted about the use of electrical cords. Keep paper and tinsel decorations away from hot lights. Unplug cords when you string lights. Remember to unplug Christmas lights before you leave home or go to bed.

Never attempt to climb a power pole or enter a restricted substation area. Also, don't tamper with transformers that provide underground service with power. Before you dig, call your local electric cooperative to locate your underground service.

Never fire a gun at a security light, a power line, insulator or a transformer.


Safety Links

Occupational Safety & Heath Administration (OSHA) - www.OSHA.gov

10-Foot Rule (House Bill 1265) pdf

 


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