Electrical Safety Month

Monday, May 11, 2009 - During the month of May, we celebrate Electrical Safety Month. Electricity is a great asset as we live our everyday lives, but it can also be very dangerous if not handled properly. Here are a few safety tips for both indoor and outdoor electrical usage:

Indoor Safety:

• Don't overload outlets. An overloaded outlet is a fire hazard. If your outlets are overloaded with many appliances, consider having a qualified electrician install additional outlets.
• Frayed cords are dangerous. Cord insulation keeps electricity in the wires, where it belongs. Regularly check appliance power cords and connections for wear; don't use frayed or cracked cords.
• Extension cords are for temporary indoor use. Keep them away from moisture, heat, or metal pipes. Never put them under rugs because they can become frayed or cracked without out being able to see the damage.
• Water + Electricity = Shocking! Always unplug any kitchen appliance before cleaning it. Even if turned off, it can shock you. Use outlets with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) for appliances near kitchen sinks.

Outdoor Safety:

• Keep your distance from overhead lines. When carrying and using ladder and other long tools, make sure to keep them at least 10 feet away from all overhead lines-including the line from the power pole to your home.
• Stay out of substations! Tell children that if a ball or toy gets into a substation they should tell an adult and call the power company (MPS' phone number is 299-5400). Never try to retrieve the toy yourself.
• Call before you dig. If you hit an underground line you could be seriously or fatally injured. Before digging or moving earth in any way, call 811 or 1-800-252-1166 to have all underground utilities located.
• Select power tools designed for outdoor use. They should have heavier wiring and be double insulated or have three-way grounded plugs. When working outside near water, be sure to plug tools into a GFCI.

Why you can get shocked: Electricity takes the easiest path to the ground. If you touch electricity (or something touching electricity) and the ground at the same time, you become the path, and electricity will flow through you causing you to become seriously, or fatally, injured.

Posted by: MPS Communications Director, Doug Rogness