Although electricity is one of the greatest conveniences in our lives, it can be very dangerous. Always operate electrical equipment in a safe manner.

Extension Cords

Extension cords are not as safe as permanent household wiring. Use them temporarily and in a safe manner.

• Check the amperage rating for an extension cord to make sure it is greater than, or equal to, the tool or appliance you will be using.
• Routinely inspect cords for broken or frayed insulation. Immediately repair or replace unsafe cords.
• Do not cut off ground prongs. This eliminates the protection of grounded cords.
• Do not use extension cords as a substitute for permanent wiring.
• Always keep slack in extension cords. A taut cord can put tension on plugs and receptacles and increase the potential for connections to pull loose.
• Don't run extension cords across doorways or other heavy traffic areas unless you securely tape them to the floor.
• Never unplug an extension cord by pulling on the cord. Always unplug the cord by firmly grasping the plug.
• Avoid "pinch points" such as doors or windows. Doors and windows can be accidentally closed, cutting insulation and exposing bare wires. \
• Don't staple or nail extension cords to walls.
• Don't allow cords to come into contact with oil or other corrosive materials.
• Before using an extension cord outside or in a wet area, confirm that the cord is rated for outdoor use and make sure the cord is connected to a ground fault circuit interrupter.

Electrical Safety and Outdoor Activities

• Never fly a kite or model airplane near overhead wires.
• Don't let children climb trees near power lines.
• Keep sailboats away from power lines.
• Use extreme care around swimming pools. Don't use electrical appliances near pools or extension cords in the vicinity of pools.
• Use caution around padmount transformers. If the green covering around the transformer is damaged or the lock is broken, stay away and call us. Don't plant trees, shrubs or flowers around transformers. Landscaping around transformers restricts access for power crews and digging creates a danger of contact with buried cables.
• Be careful when working or playing around guy wires supporting utility poles. Don't swing or climb on them; avoid running into them with yard equipment or vehicles.
• Call before you dig to identify the location of underground wires. Digging or driving objects into underground wires could cause serious injuries or service interruptions. Maintain a distance of 2 feet from marked power lines.
• Don't set ladders or scaffolds close to overhead electric lines, including the service wires connected to houses and buildings.
• Be careful when carrying swimming pool skimmers, metal pipes or other tall poles and long boards. Contacting electric lines could cause serious burns or even death.
• Take care not to cut the power cord when working with electrically powered cutting tools outdoors. These include lawn mowers, hedge clippers, chain saws and trimmers.
• When working around trees, make sure no electric wires run through the branches. If you see a branch in danger of falling on a line, call Holland BPW .
• Wear sturdy rubber-soled shoes when working with electric tools outdoors. Never use electrical tools when barefooted.

 Severe Weather Electrical Safety

As families begin to clean up following a flood or storm, it is important to remember that there may still be electrical hazards hidden throughout the home.

If your house has been flooded, had a power surge, or lighting contact during a storm, have a licensed electrician check the house wiring and appliances to make sure they are safe to use.

 Additionally, here is some advice about how to stay safe from the electrical dangers associated with these severe storms:

• Stop and look around before stepping into a flooded area, and be aware that submerged outlets or electrical cords may energize the water, posing a potentially deadly trap.
• Always assume fallen power lines are energized.  Stay at least ten feet away from a downed power line and any nearby objects it may be touching, such as a fence or a tree limb.
• Contact the HBPW immediately to report downed power lines outside your home.
• Never touch a person or object that is in direct or indirect contact with a downed power line. Instead, call 911 immediately.
• If a downed power line lands on your vehicle or house, stay inside.  Leaving the house or vehicle will put you in danger of direct contact with the power line.
• Never attempt to move a downed power line – leave it to the professionals.
• When using portable generators, plug appliances directly into the generator to prevent back feed along the power lines.
• Be sure that the generator is dry and properly grounded.
• Do not operate a portable generator in your home, basement, or garage. Generators can very quickly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which can be deadly.

If you have any questions or would like more information about keeping your kids safe around electricity, please visit our website Hollandbpw.com or call 616-355-1500.