Electric Safety
Electricity always seeks every available path to ground through conductors. Good conductors are:
- Metal
- Wet wood
- Water
Your body is 70% water and is a dangerously good conductor of current. So, if you're grounded and touching an energized bare wire, electricity will pass through you to the ground. An amount of electricity as small as that found in a typical Christmas tree bulb can be fatal. Or, the shock can easily cause serious falls, burns, cuts or internal bleeding.
Indoor electric safety
- Never touch an appliance or switch it on or off with wet hands.
- Never place electrical equipment where it could fall into water, such as beside a sink or bathtub.
- Unplug small appliances and equipment when not in use.
- At home, keep electrical cords away from toddlers or pets.
- Check all cords periodically to be sure they are in good condition.
- Don't use extension cords as a substitute for fixed wiring.
- Cover electrical outlets you're not using with plug protectors.
- Teach children at an early age about electricity and the importance of practicing electric safety.
Outdoor electric safety
- Stay clear of substations and power lines.
- While using a hose or sprinkler, don't let water contact overhead wires.
- Keep radios, TVs or other electrical appliances away from your swimming pool or hot tub.
- Don't fly kites, balloons or drones or climb trees near electric lines. If an airborne toy or device gets caught in an electric line, DO NOT attempt to retrieve it. Call MGE at 608-252-7000.
- 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 building when painting or doing other repairs.
Dig Safe!
Damaging a line is not only dangerous, it also will be expensive if you have not contacted Diggers Hotline ahead of time. Call 811 before you dig.
