Outdoor Electrical Safety
Overhead and Underground Power Lines
There are several electrical hazards outside the home. You should not only be aware of overhead power lines but also underground power lines.
People have been electrocuted when an object they
are moving has come in contact with the overhead power lines. Keep
ladders, antennas, kites and poles away from power lines leading to
the house and other buildings.
You should never put a swimming pool or other structure under the power line leading to your house.
Whenever doing projects around the house that require digging, such as installing a fence or simply landscaping, be sure you know where any underground power lines may be located.
If you have an animal trapped in a tree or on the roof near electric lines, phone your utility company. Do not take a chance of electrocuting yourself.
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see a downed power line, call the electric company, and warn others away. If a power line hits your car while you are in it, stay inside the car until help arrives. If the car catches fire, DO NOT PANIC, slowly and carefully open the door, while still in the car look out and make sure there are no power lines that you may contact, remember to also look up, DO NOT STEP OUT OF THE CAR, place both feet on the edge of the door jamb and jump clear without touching metal and the ground at the same time.
Outdoor Appliances
Be aware of weather conditions when installing and working with electrical appliances outdoors. Never use electrical power tools or appliances in the rain or when standing in water or on damp ground. If you are using an extension cord outdoors be sure it is marked "For Outdoor Use" and rated for the power needs of your tools. When using electric trimmers, edgers, etc. be careful not to damage or cut the extension cord. Always use outlets that are protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
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Outdoor Electrical Safety
Overhead and Underground Power Lines
There are several electrical hazards outside the home. You should not only be aware of overhead power lines but also underground power lines.
People have been electrocuted when an object they
are moving has come in contact with the overhead power lines. Keep
ladders, antennas, kites and poles away from power lines leading to
the house and other buildings.
You should never put a swimming pool or other structure under the power line leading to your house.
Whenever doing projects around the house that require digging, such as installing a fence or simply landscaping, be sure you know where any underground power lines may be located.
If you have an animal trapped in a tree or on the roof near electric lines, phone your utility company. Do not take a chance of electrocuting yourself.
Downed power lines are extremely dangerous. If you see a downed power line, call the electric company, and warn others away. If a power line hits your car while you are in it, stay inside the car until help arrives. If the car catches fire, DO NOT PANIC, slowly and carefully open the door, while still in the car look out and make sure there are no power lines that you may contact, remember to also look up, DO NOT STEP OUT OF THE CAR, place both feet on the edge of the door jamb and jump clear without touching metal and the ground at the same time.
Outdoor Appliances
Be aware of weather conditions when installing and working with electrical appliances outdoors. Never use electrical power tools or appliances in the rain or when standing in water or on damp ground. If you are using an extension cord outdoors be sure it is marked "For Outdoor Use" and rated for the power needs of your tools. When using electric trimmers, edgers, etc. be careful not to damage or cut the extension cord. Always use outlets that are protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
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