Summer is a popular time for kids to visit a park, go to the local pool, or play in the backyard. It’s also the time for parents to tell their children about the basics of electrical safety. Here are some common summer safety risks people encounter.
Dangerous Thunderstorms
The intense heat often results in sudden thunderstorms that can catch people off guard. Never swim during a thunderstorm, as water attracts lightning. Get away from the water and seek shelter in a sturdy building or vehicle. If storms are in the forecast, it’s best to postpone your outdoor activities.
Power Lines
Utility lines are “live and dangerous.” Never touch an outdoor wire with any part of your body, toys, or other objects. Stay away from substations, transmission equipment, and electrical equipment. Don’t try to retrieve a toy or kite if it gets stuck in the danger zone.
Fly kites and model airplanes only in large open areas. Never climb trees that are near power lines. If the branches touch, you could be electrocuted. Stay off of utility poles too.
Water Hazards
Energy flows easily through puddles and pools. If you are wet or standing in water, never touch any electrical appliances, toys or tools. Keep these items at least 10 feet away from the water. Flooded areas are never safe for kids to wade or play in.
Hanging Objects
Utility poles or other electrical equipment is not the place to post signs, hang banners, tie ribbons or balloons. Don’t hang tennis shoes over electric lines either. Objects that touch live equipment can be dangerous to you and utility workers.
Electrical Substations
This seems like a no-brainer, but never go into an electrical substation for any reason. They contain high-voltage equipment which can kill you.
Teach your children how to read important signs. These include, “high voltage”, “danger”, “keep out”, and “caution”.
Pool and Spa Safety
It’s a real pleasure to hop in a pool on a warm day or relax in the spa on a cool evening. However, there is danger lurking. Electrocutions and serious electrical shocks involving electrical hazards do occur in or around swimming pools. Have a qualified electrician inspect and upgrade your pool, spa or hot tub to ensure it’s safe.
Backyard Summer Safety
If you spend time in the backyard grilling, swimming or trimming trees, here are some safety tips to keep in mind.
- Test GFCI outlets. They are a required safety device for all outdoor outlets. Power will automatically be shut off if the outlet comes into contact with water. Check them once every 30 days.
- If you need extension cords, make sure they are labeled “for outdoor use”. Never use an indoor cord outside.
- Never use an electric grill when it’s raining or drizzling outside. Also, make sure it’s plugged into a GFCI protected outlet.
- Don’t try to remove or trim trees near power lines. Call your local utility company to do the job.
- If you need to dig a hole in your yard, make sure it’s safe to do so. Call 8-1-1
- Store electrical equipment indoors. Never use corded power tools in wet or damp conditions.
- Repair frayed wires or damaged cords as soon as possible.
Contact Us for all of Your Electrical Needs
The folks at CKElectric can handle all of your electrical projects, big or small! We can help you with electrical upgrades, repairs or wiring. We serve Sykesville, Eldersburg, Frederick, and all of Central Maryland. Call us at 443-920-3078 or contact us online. We are happy to serve you!
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