Safety Tips

Keep these safety tips in mind when working around electricity at home or at work.

Water and Electricity Don’t Mix

• Use outlet covers on outdoor receptacles near swimming pools.
• Keep cords and electrical devices away from pools.
• Never handle electrical items when you are wet.
• Do not allow power cord connections to become wet.

Test Before You Work

• Make sure circuits are turned off before starting work, and make sure they are not turned back on while working.
• Understand your electrical system -know which fuse or circuit breaker controls each switch, light and outlet.
• Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to prevent electrocutions.

Outlets and Power Cords

• Check for outlets that have loose fitting plugs, which can lead to arcing and fire.
• Avoid overloading outlets with too many appliances. Never plug more than one high-wattage appliance in at a time in each.
• Place safety covers on all unused outlets that are accessible to children.
• Make sure all power cords and extension cords are in good condition, not frayed, cracked or cut.
• Do not place power cords in high traffic areas or under carpets, rugs or furniture.
• Power cords should never be nailed or stapled to the wall, baseboard, or another object.