Electrical Safety

May is National Electrical Safety Month!

Play it safe near power lines.   Lafayette Utilities System wants customers to always remember the importance of safety when playing and working near all types of utility infrastructure. May is National Electrical Safety Month and a good time to review electrical safety practices. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) reminds consumers that taking steps to eliminate the top electrical safety hazards around the home and at the workplace can prevent thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths that needlessly occur each year. Top electrical safety hazards include electrical fires caused by aging wiring; misuse of surge suppressors and extension cords; and electrocutions from power lines, wiring systems and large appliances.

Eliminate Top Safety Threats to Prevent Electrical Injuries

• Use appliances and equipment accordint to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Replace damaged electrical equipment or have it repaired at an authorized repair center.
• Make sure power strips, cords and surge suppressors are designed to handle the loads for their intended use. Avoid overloading circuits by plugging too many items into the same outlet.
• Use ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection when working where water is near electricity to protect against electric shock.
• Avoid contact with power lines by being aware of the location of power lines and keeping away.

Avoid Outdoor Electrical Hazards at Work and Home

• Ladders-even those made of wood-that contact a power line can prove fatal.
• Unplug outdoor tools and appliances when not in use.
• Inspect power tools and appliances for frayed cords, broken plugs and cracked or broken housing and repair or replace damaged items.
• Water does not mix with electricity. Avoid damp conditions-including wet grass-when using electricity.

Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International