One of our main concerns is keeping our members safe. That is why we provide safety information through presentations, demonstrations, advertising, and stories in our newsletter. You can never be too careful around electricity! Here are some safety tips to help you stay safe:
Follow the “10-foot rule.” That means stay at least 10 feet away in every direction from any power lines, especially when you’re working with farm equipment or machinery.
Look up and look out! Don’t become so involved with your work outdoors (such as sign painting, roofing and construction) that you fail to be careful around electric wires. Coming into contact with power lines can cause serious injuries or death, so survey your work area and overhead clearance before you begin.
A plugged-in appliance, even though it’s turned off, can still deliver an electric shock if it comes into contact with water. But a ground fault circuit interrupter, or GFCI, reacts to the smallest electric current leak by stopping the flow of electricity.
Warm weather is a time for outdoor fun, but no matter what you’re doing, flying a kite, trimming a tree or washing windows, be extra careful around power lines.
Install safety plugs into outlets if you have young children at home. An open electric outlet is an open invitation for exploration for toddlers!
If you see a downed power line, stay away! You don’t have to touch a power line to get shocked. Call your electric cooperative immediately.
Remember – electricity is the safest form of energy, but even safe energy should never be taken for granted. Carelessness can result in property damage, personal injury or death.