Electric Safety

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Don't become a conductor.

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.

Just a little current can be fatal

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 safety

  • Never touch an appliance or switch it on or off with wet hands.
  • Never place electrical equipment where it could fall into a sink or water.
  • 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 safety

  • Stay clear of substations and power lines.
  • When 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 or drones or climb trees near electric 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 building when painting or doing other repairs.

Before you dig

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 1-800-242-8511, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Participating municipalities and utilities can then mark the location of any underground lines on your property. Damaging a line is not only dangerous, it will also be expensive if you have not contacted Diggers Hotline ahead of time.

For more information

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