Electrical Safety

Thunderstorm Safety:

Telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity. Unplug appliances not necessary for obtaining weather information.

Avoid using the telephone or any electrical appliances. Use phones ONLY in an emergency.

Do not take a bath or shower.

Turn off air conditioners. Power surges from lightning can overload the compressors.

Everyday Electrical Safety:

Never turn on an appliance when you're on a wet floor or in the bathtub or shower.

If something seems wrong with an appliance or tool, or it gives even the slightest shock, disconnect it. Have it repaired or discard it.

Always disconnect small appliances and tools before cleaning them.

To disconnect an appliance or tool, don't pull the cord; instead, grasp the plug and pull it from the outlet.

Don't run extension cords under rugs or flooring. Be sure that the size of your extension cord is adequate for the tool or appliance.

Never touch or approach downed power lines. Always assume that downed wires are energized. Call your local law enforcement office immediately to report downed wires

Keep ladders and other conductive objects away from electric lines. If you don't know whether an object is conductive -- play it safe, and assume that it is.

Don't use electric tools near water or in the rain.

Keep antennas away from power lines.

Don't fly kites near electric wires. If kite string gets caught in power lines, leave it alone; don't try to remove the string from the lines. Instead, call us immediately for assistance.

Don't dig until you've checked with us. You can get information about underground wires anywhere in the state. Avoid a dangerous and costly accident.

Do be sure your electric tools are double insulated or have a three-pronged plug. Don't adapt a three-pronged plug to an ungrounded, two-hole receptacle.

If you plan to use an auxiliary generator during a temporary power outage, or at any other time, notify us beforehand. Improper installation and use could damage equipment and seriously injure you or our employees.

Never climb a utility pole or a tree that is near electric wires.

Never enter a substation or fenced enclosure that surrounds electrical equipment. The fenced-off area is extremely dangerous.

Information courtesy of United States NOAA and DOE.