May is National Electrical Safety Month – Twelve Tips to Keep You Safe from Electrical Current

May is National Electrical Safety Month and the Electrical Safety Foundation International is spearheading its annual effort to educate the public about the steps that can be taken in order to reduce the number of electrical current related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting electrical safety in the workplace and home. To commemorate National Electrical Safety Month, Security Specialists has outlined twelve simple steps that you can take in order to reduce the number of electrical current related fires, fatalities, injuries and property loss in your home or business.

1. Before starting any household project, know where the power lines are located and where they are hanging. Whether working on the roof, trimming trees, or painting your siding, it’s your job to be aware of and to alert others about the location of nearby power lines.
2. Assume that all overhead wires are energized at lethal voltages. Never assume that a wire is safe to touch even if it is down or appears to be insulated.
3. Always try to stay at least 10 feet away from all overhead power lines when working.
4. Call the electric utility company to report fallen electrical lines and stay at least 35 feet away from downed lines.
5. Never put anything other than an electrical plug in an outlet. Use outlet covers or caps to protect children from sticking objects into outlets.
6. Don’t run cords under carpets or rugs and don’t tack or nail cords to walls or floors.
7. Check electric cords for fraying or cracking. Replace cords that may be damaged, and don’t overload electric outlets.
8. Remember extension cords are intended to be temporary; they are not intended as permanent household wiring.
9. Keep electric appliances and tools away from water. Never reach for or unplug an appliance that has fallen into water; instead, turn the power off at the breaker before you unplug the appliance or remove it from the water.
10. Carry ladders and equipment horizontally.
11. Avoid planting trees underneath power lines or near utility equipment.
12. Never repair electrical cords or equipment unless qualified and authorized.

We at Security Specialists Want You, Your Family and Your Employees to Stay Safe and Secure When Working Near Electrical Current!