Don’t Trip Up When It Comes to Electrical Safety

Some of what we learn about electrical safety is from our childhoods. Don’t get your boombox wet! Don’t play on transformers (what do those do anyway?)! Don’t fly a kite too close to power lines!

These are all great rules of thumb to carry into adulthood. But there are more ways to protect yourself against outdoor electrical hazards.

Whether it’s relaxing by the pool or working on that long-overdue DIY project, remember these helpful tips while enjoying the outdoors.

Working with power tools:

  • Stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines.
  • Make sure your work area is clean and organized. Stray paper and wood shavings can be a fire hazard.
  • When mowing the lawn or pruning with power tools, be sure to wear thick-soled, rubber shoes, and NEVER go barefoot.
  • Never use electric tools around water.
  • Store fuel away from heat sources and out of the sun.
  • Store electrical equipment indoors and away from water sources and places where rodents or insects nest.

Planting Trees Near Power Lines:

  • Be sure your trees have enough room to grow, especially when close to power lines. A professional tree service, like Monster Tree Service, can help you plan and measure your trees.
  • Trim back branches from your electrical system, including nearby power lines.
  • Trees growing into power lines are expensive to fix, can decrease tree health, and cause trees to become dangerous.

Entertaining is a summertime favorite. If you’re on your deck or patio, or around the pool, you’ll need power, which means you may need outlets and extension cords. Here are some things to consider:

Outdoor Outlets:

  • Use Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) outlets. GFCIs automatically cut power when a connected device comes in contact with water.
  • Cover outdoor outlets with weatherproof covers.

Extension Cord Safety:

  • Indoor extension cords cannot be used outdoors.
  • Do not connect one extension cord to another extension cord.
  • Be sure the amperage rate of the extension cord is equal to or higher than the product you’re plugging in.

Make pool time a safe time:

  • If you’re thinking about installing a pool or hot tub, be sure they are installed at a safe distance from overhead powerlines.
  • A Mister Sparky electrician can make sure your pool or spa is up to local code and has passed all necessary inspections.
  • All outdoor electrical receptacles (like boxes and outlets) should be kept covered and dry, even when in use.
  • Use GFCIs to help protect against electric shock.
  • Keep electrical appliances and equipment at least 6 feet away from water. If possible, use battery-powered items (like radios or even TVs).
  • NEVER touch electrical devices when wet.
  • NEVER swim during a thunderstorm.

Whatever your electrical needs are, our trustworthy experts are available to help you whenever you need them. Mister Sparky can make sure your electrical system is in order – so you can worry about more important things, like enjoying your summer.

Contact us today!