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
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