Posted by Electricity plays an important role in each of our lives. It lights homes, runs businesses and makes many daily tasks easier. However, if safety rules are not followed, the power of electricity also can be harmful. It’s important to remember there is enough power at every electrical outlet to cause serious injury or even death if proper electrical safety precautions aren’t taken. Children deserve special concern around electricity.
“Parents and caregivers are urged to protect children and others from electrical injury by regularly checking to ensure their homes are free from potential hazards,” said Chris Myers, Pacific Power safety director. “Instruct children at a young age on how to avoid unsafe behavior around electrical equipment both inside and outside of the home.”
Electrical safety information and free safety materials are available online at www.pacificpower.net/safety. Or call toll free at 800-375-7085.
Myers also recommends checking to ensure that safe conditions exist in daycare facilities, in hotel rooms when traveling, and in the homes of neighbors and friends where children play.
Pacific Power offers the following reminders for safely using electricity inside the home:
- Don’t overload electrical circuits. This is a common cause of fires.
- Use outlet plug covers if small children live in the house.
- Never use electrical appliances near water. Hair dryers, radios and other bathroom or kitchen appliances should be kept away from sinks and tubs.
- Use extension cords wisely. Never exceed the load rating, always dispose of damaged cords and don’t use extension cords as a replacement for permanent wiring.
- Attach extension cords to appliances before plugging them into outlets.
- Always disconnect by pulling on the plug – not the cord.
- Unplug appliances before attempting any repairs.
- Use three-pronged grounded plugs only in three-prong outlets; never cut the third prong off a plug.
- Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters – outlets with test and reset buttons – in bathrooms, garages, near kitchen sinks and outdoors, as they are designed to shut off power during a short circuit or grounding event.
- When performing electrical do-it-yourself projects around the home, always turn off circuit breakers and then test circuits to make sure they are de-energized before performing any work. Professional electricians can help ensure large projects are done according to electrical codes for your home.
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