Electricity powers our homes. In particular, during the spring and summer months, as the heat rises, our homes require more electricity to cool them down. However, electricity is dangerous and accounts for many home injuries, so some electrical tips to keep your family safe are important to note.

To help, here are some simple safety steps to protect you and your family, many of which are very important to share with your children since they will start to be playing outside more often as the weather gets warmer.

In general, NEVER handle electrical items when you are wet, along with keeping electrical toys or appliances away from water.

  • Make sure the electrical connections to your pools and hot tubs are fully grounded.
  • Use water resistant outlet covers on all outdoor receptacles near swimming pools and use GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupters) protection for all pool power outlets.
  • When using a wet-dry vacuum cleaner or a pressure washer, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for grounding.
  • Never plug in any appliance if you notice that the cord is frayed or damaged in anyway.
  • In the event of an emergency, know where your circuit breakers are and how to safely turn them off.
  • Be aware of power lines around you and always assume that wires are “live and dangerous.”
  • Never touch an outdoor wire with any part of your body, toys or other objects.
  • Do not climb trees that are too close to power lines; even if the tree isn’t touching a line, the extra weight from someone climbing the tree could cause a branch to touch the line, which would be dangerous.
  • Fly kites and model airplanes and other toys in large open areas such as a field or a park – safely away from trees and overhead power lines.
  • Do not go into an electric substation for any reason – even on a dare. Electric substations contain high-voltage equipment, which can kill you. Also, never attempt to rescue a pet that goes inside. Instead, call your local utility company.
  • Do not use electrical devices (such as circuit breakers, fuses, GFCIs, receptacles, plugs and switches) that have been submerged.

An important safety note is remember that electrical equipment is dangerous, so do not try to rescue a family member, friend or pet that has come into contact with an electrical accident. Call 911 immediately.

In the spring , we start to rely more on our backyards for fun and entertainment. However, regardless of your weekend activities, always remember that electricity surrounds everything. As a result, do not overlook outdoor electrical safety. To help, here are some electrical safety precautions to consider when you and your family are in the backyard.

  • Schedule TMS to come out and perform an annual check of outdoor electrical equipment.
  • Check each outlet has its own weatherproof outlet cover, and keep it closed when not in use.
  • Avoid using corded power tools in wet or damp locations.
  • Do not trim trees in dangerous weather conditions.
  • Only use extension cords that are rated for outdoor use because indoor cords can’t withstand the weather conditions when they’re used outdoors.
  • Do not climb with tools in your hands, and be sure to wear safety equipment at all times.
  • Watch out for power lines while using a ladder or pole to make sure it won’t come within 10 feet of a power line.
  • Do not allow power cord connections to become wet. Outdoors, dangers such as power lines in contact with water can pose electrical hazards. Indoors, submerged outlets or electrical cords may energize the water, a potential lethal trap. Before flipping a switch or plugging in an appliance, have an electrician check the house wiring and appliance to make sure it is safe to use.

Good electrical safety habits help you ensure your family, friends and neighbors remain safe. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an annual electrical check of your entire home, give us a call today at (860) 314-1518. It’s our job to keep you comfortable and safe!