Buried electric, phone, cable, water or other facilities can be extremely dangerous if damaged, and they are costly to repair. Before you dig in the yard call Ohio Utilities Protection Service (OUPS). OUPS will notify all utility companies to locate facilities. By law, OUPS requires 48-hours notice.
Call OUPS any time at 800.362.2764 or 811, or visit www.oups.org
Electricity is safe and reliable, but it can be hazardous if used improperly.
Here are some things you should and shouldn't do in your home when working with electricity or using powered devices.
Shut off power before performing electrical work
Shut off power at the circuit before performing any work on outlets, switches, light fixtures and other electrical equipment.
Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets
GFCIs monitor current flow in a circuit and shut it off if an imbalance is detected. Install them in the kitchen, bathrooms, outside and other potentially damp areas.
Use safety covers on unused outlets
Children can suffer serious shock or burn injuries if they insert objects into outlets. If children are present, install safety covers on all unused outlets.
Check for frayed, cracked or otherwise damaged electrical cords
Damaged cords may have exposed live wires that can be shock and fire hazards. Replace any damaged cords or replace equipment.
Unplug small appliances when not in use
Even when they're turned off, plugged-in devices can be a shock hazard if they fall into water. Unplug all small kitchen and bathroom appliances (such as blenders or hair dryers) when you're not using them.
Use extension cords on a long-term basis.
Extension cords are not as safe as permanent house wiring or cords that go with equipment. Install more outlets if necessary, or move the powered device closer to an outlet.
Overload electrical circuits
Overloaded electrical circuits are a major cause of residential fires. To prevent circuit overloads, make sure all major appliances are plugged into a single wall outlet, and avoid plugging a lot of devices into one outlet.
Use indoor extension cords outside
Cords intended for indoor use are not made to withstand the climate and mechanical stresses of outdoor conditions. Use only weather-resistant extension cords marked for outdoor use.
Locate powered electrical cords under rugs or furniture.
Pressure from heavy weight or foot traffic can damage cords, creating a fire hazard. Move cords or furniture so that the cords are not covered.
Plug generators directly into an outlet or circuit panel
The electricity generated can backfeed to outdoor power lines, where it can injure or kill utility service personnel. Permanent standby generators can be connected to the home by an automatic transfer switch, which can prevent this from happening.
Is your home wiring safe? Signs of trouble include flickering lights and frequently blown circuits. If you suspect unsafe wiring conditions or other electrical problems, hire a qualified electrician to inspect your home.
The following is a checklist of items that you can use throughout your home to help protect your family.
* These tips are for informational purposes only and do not supersede state or local building codes. Contact your local building inspector for information regarding requirements in your area. Remember that common sense and good safety habits are the best protection against electrical hazards.
As the weather warms and you spend more time outdoors, it’s essential to prioritize electrical safety. Hidden hazards can pose serious risks.
Here are some critical safety tips to keep your loved ones safe in your backyard.
Overhead power lines can be closer than they appear. Teach children never to climb trees near power lines; and never to fly kites, drones, remote-controlled toys or balloons in areas where lines are present. If you see a downed power line, stay at least 50 feet away and report it to your local utility company immediately.
If you’re considering an above-ground trampoline, remember to look up for power lines. Children jumping high into the air could come dangerously close to overhead electric lines, which pose a serious risk of shock or electrocution.
Thinking about installing an in-ground trampoline instead? Before you dig, call 811 to have underground utility lines marked. Digging without knowing the location of buried electrical, gas or water lines can result in dangerous utility strikes. This simple step can prevent accidents, service interruptions and costly repairs.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. Keep these tips in mind to prevent electrical hazards and create a safe space for swimming, soaking and outdoor fun.
Ensure pool lights, filters and outdoor outlets have ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection and inspect them regularly. GFCIs are designed to quickly shut off electrical power if they detect even a small change in electrical current.
If you notice flickering lights or feel a tingling sensation in the water, exit immediately and contact a professional. Faulty wiring can cause electric shock drowning.
Avoid using plug-in devices, like radios, speakers or chargers, near water. Opt for battery-operated, waterproof devices to reduce the risk of shock.
Know what to do in case of an electrical emergency. If someone is shocked, do not enter the water. Turn off the power source, call 911 and use a non-conductive tool, like a fiberglass pool pole, to assist.
If it starts to rain, unplug electrical equipment, such as string lights, radios, speakers or power tools. Teach children not to touch electrical appliances with wet hands.
Sports and play areas are a haven for children, but they can also contain hidden electrical hazards. Here’s how to protect your loved ones:
Ensure swings and other tall play structures are far from overhead power lines.
If you have outdoor lighting for night games, ensure the fixtures are weatherproof and properly installed. Have a professional check for frayed wires or loose connections.
If kids are playing with a ball and it goes inside a substation fence, teach them never to touch or climb the fence to attempt to retrieve it or any other item. Instead, call your electric utility to safely take care of it.
Install a weather app on your phone to inform you of weather alerts. Lightning can occur up to 10 miles away from the heart of the storm, so if you hear thunder, seek shelter inside.
Children are naturally curious, which is why they should be kept away from outdoor electrical equipment like utility boxes, transformers and air conditioning units. If you have an outdoor generator, make sure it is stored in a secure, ventilated area that children cannot access and never plug a generator directly into your home’s electrical system.
If you’re planning a backyard upgrade, such as installing landscape lighting, sports lighting or poolside outlets, leave the electrical work to licensed electricians. DIY electrical projects can pose serious safety risks to you and your family if done incorrectly.
From poolside play to backyard sports, it’s important to be aware of electrical hazards and how to avoid them. By following these guidelines, you can create a home oasis that is both fun and safe.
For more tips on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.
Holiday lights can add to your seasonal celebrations, but they can also increase your risk of a house fire. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, holiday lights and decorations cause nearly 400 house fires each year. The following tips can help keep your family bright, happy and safe during the holiday season.
