March 2011 - Madison Gas and Electric

Put safety first when working outdoors this spring

Spring brings people and projects out of hibernation. Make sure you use good safety practices to protect yourself, your family and your neighbors.

Take special care in and around electric facilities. Contact with electrical current can cause injury or even prove fatal.

When planning outside projects this spring, don't forget these safety considerations:

Notify Diggers Hotline

If you are planning a project that requires digging, be sure to call Diggers Hotline at least three working days before you begin. Call toll free 8-1-1 or 1-800-242-8511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Participating municipalities and utilities can then mark the location of any underground lines on your property. Digging into a line is not only dangerous, it also can be expensive if you have not contacted Diggers Hotline ahead of time.

If your call indicates a possible problem with power lines, participating utilities will contact you within three working days to explain the safe clearances necessary for your project.

For more information, visit diggershotline.com.

Use electricity and powered equipment carefully

Be sure your equipment is in safe working condition, that wires are not exposed or frayed and that your tools are approved by Underwriters Laboratory. Look for the UL® symbol.

Observe these safety fundamentals

Stay clear of substations and power lines.
Be sure your outdoor wiring is on a separate circuit of sufficient amperage for your heavy-duty equipment and power tools.
Don't overload extension cords.
Avoid contact with the electrical service entrance to your home or outbuildings when painting or doing other repairs.
When using a garden hose or sprinkler, don't let water contact overhead wires.
Keep radios, TV or other electrical appliances away from pools.
Don't fly kites or climb trees near electric wires.

Para informacion en Español, llame a MGE a (608) 252-7120.