Safety Comes First!  

Indoor Safety

• Put safety caps in unused wall outlets. Children are naturally inquisitive and outlets present a temptation for little fingers.
• Repair or replace damaged or brittle electrical cords. They can cause a short, shock or an electrical fire.
• Use electrical cords properly. Remove a cord by pulling on the plug, not the cord itself. Never twist, bind or walk on a cord.
• Keep electric appliances away from water. Make sure you and the appliance are dry and keep the appliance away from water when in use.
• Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters. GFCIs prevent electric shock by interrupting the electrical supply to the outlet when a ground fault occurs.
• Be aware of electrical problems. Flickering lights may indicate a wiring problem that needs immediate repair or replacement.
• Cover all electrical outlets and wall switches with cover plates. Covers prevent any contact between you and inside wiring.
• Use the correct size (wattage) bulb in all lighting fixtures. Check to make sure bulbs are screwed in securely as loose bulbs can overheat.
• Use space heaters properly. Never use a space heater near bedding, drapes, furniture or rugs and always unplug it when not in use.
• Keep a fire extinguisher within easy reach. Use a "C" class fire extinguisher which is safe to use on electrical fires. If one is not available, baking soda will extinguish an electrical fire.

• Never go near or touch a power line. Always assume a power line is "live" and keep people and pets away from the line.
• Fly kites, balloons and model airplanes away from power lines. If one gets caught in the lines, leave it alone. Do not try to remove it.
• Never climb trees, poles or steel towers that are contacting or are near power lines. Such close contact to power lines can be deadly.
• Don't use indoor lights for outdoor purposes. Make sure the bulbs, wiring and extension cords are designed specifically for outdoor use.
• Keep all electrical appliances and toys away from water, including lawn sprinklers, swimming pools, hoses, rain, etc.
• When using a ladder, pool skimmer, water pipes or any tall object--look up! Be aware of power lines overhead that could come in contact with it.
• Keep electric radios, appliances and wiring for outdoor lighting away from swimming pools. Never touch an electric device when in a pool.
• Never repair a break in an outdoor extension cord. If the cord is damaged, throw it away and purchase a new cord.
• Before you dig in your yard, contact your cooperative and any other utility companies. There may be underground wires buried in your yard.
• If you are planting a new tree, never plant it under or near power lines. Trees will grow up and limbs may interfere with the lines and interrupt service.