Safety Tips for Electricity
Using
electricity safely is a combination of using common sense, knowing
where the potential dangers are and how to minimize them. Here are some
great ideas for keeping your family safe.
Keeping Your Appliances Safe
- Replace damaged plugs or frayed cords immediately
- If
an appliance begins to smoke, you notice a burning smell or you get a
slight shock, switch it off at the wall immediately and either replace
it or seek advice from a registered electrician.
- Don’t overload
your power points. If you need more power points, contact a registered
electrician to have them installed or make sure you have a plug with a
built in overload switch.
Being Safe With Electricity Outside
- Only use one-piece extension cords. Never plug two cords together.
- Don’t use electric mowers or hedge clippers in the rain or after heavy dew.
- When using a mower or clipper, keep the power cord clear of the area you are working in.
Overhead Powerlines
- Keep extension ladders, boat masts and window washing equipment away from power lines.
- Never climb anywhere near a power line.
- Don’t
let children fly kites near power lines. If they do fly a kite near
lines, and it becomes tangled, make sure they know never to try to
retrieve it. Warn them not to climb power poles, pylons or substations.
Who To Call
If you have any questions about electrical safety, please call your local MLEC office.