Electricity is such an ever-present part of our lives that we sometimes take it for granted. But it must always be treated with respect.

 

The best rule is to learn and practice safety pre- cautions and to teach others in your family, especially your children, to do the same.

 

Power Lines

Treat every wire as if it were a "live" wire and dangerous. Never assume a line is "dead!"
 

Don't raise any tall objects without looking up. A ladder, antenna, piece of pipe, even wet wood can be deadly if contact is made with an electric line.

 

When installing any radio or television antennas, position them away from power lines. A safe distance is twice the height of the antenna and mast assembly.

 

Work only in dry weather and never on a windy day. If an antenna does start to fall, let it go and stay clear. Don't touch it until you're sure it's not touching any wires.

 

Don't load or unload trucks beneath or near power lines.

 

Call us before you try to trim any trees near power lines. Avoid planting trees under power lines.

 

Never fly kites or model airplanes near power lines. And if one is caught in a line or nearby tree, leave it alone.

 

If you come across a fallen wire, don't touch it. Report it to us or the police and warn others to stay away from it.

 

If a power line hits your car while you're in it, stay inside the car and wait for help to arrive. If the car catches fire, jump clear without touching metal and the ground at the same time.                        

 

Use Electrical Tools & Appliances Properly

 

Know your tools and appliances. Read and follow manufacturer's instructions.

  

Be sure all electric appliances and power tools carry Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approval. All power tools should have three-prong plugs or be double insulated.

  

Don't use any electric tool or appliance in the rain, on a wet surface, with wet hands or while standing in water.

  

Have an electrician install shock-protected Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters on outdoor outlets.

  

Always unplug a tool or appliance before making adjustments or repairs. Make sure tools are properly maintained, kept clean, and that cords are in good condition.

  

In Case of Fire

 

If you smell smoke or see a flame while using an appliance, unplug it or turn off the main switch. Never pour water on any live electrical wires or any appliance that's still plugged in.

  

If a fire is small, use a Class C fire extinguisher or throw baking soda on the fire. If you can't control it, get everyone out and call the fire department.

  

Advance planning can save lives and property. Know your emergency numbers and post them near your telephones. Hold fire drills with your family. Place a fire extinguisher on every floor and read its instructions to your family. Install smoke alarms. Put a rope or chain ladder near an upstairs window.

 

First Aid for Someone Injured By Electricity

 

Don't touch the person until you've freed him from the source of electricity by switching off the power. Or you may use a non-conductor like dry wood or rope to push or pull the person off the current. But if the person is outdoors and touching a high-voltage wire, don't try to move him. Just dial 911 for help.