Tips to Keep You Safe Around Electricity

If there’s a storm, or you lose power:

• Stay away from fallen power lines. There’s a good chance that electricity is still running through them.
• Turn off major appliances like air conditioners or TV sets.
• Have a battery-operated flashlight handy.
• Keep refrigerators and freezers closed. The food will stay cold for hours, and frozen food will keep for a few days.

When you’re doing work outside your home:

• Don’t trim tree branches if a power line runs through them.
• Always be aware of where your electric lines are located. Keep a safe distance away from them when using or carrying a ladder.
• Never let a ladder touch a power line. Be especially careful if you are using a metal ladder.
• Never operate electric trimmers, mowers, or power tools on or near wet grass or shrubs, or with wet hands.
• Always use heavy-duty, grounded extension cords.
• If you plan to put up or repair a TV or radio antenna, consider hiring a professional contractor to do the job. Antennas are difficult and dangerous to handle.