May is Electrical Safety Month By Connie Hogue, Director of Human Resources and Safety
Connie Hogue
May is National Electrical Safety Month, and it's a great time to raise awareness about potential electrical hazards and how best to avoid them. Electricity is a safe and reliable form of energy. It can be dangerous, however, if not treated properly. Here is a checklist of items to help protect you and your family.
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Basement •
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Whole house • • • • • •
Make sure light bulbs are the proper wattage for all fixtures. Install covers on all unused outlets if small children are present. Keep electrical cords away from foot traffic, and make sure they are not covered by rugs or furniture. Do not use extension cords on a long-term basis. Avoid plugging multiple devices into one outlet. All 15 and 20 amp circuit breakers in your electrical panel should have arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) capability to protect electrical wiring and your house from fire.
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Keep electrical devices, such as radios or hair dryers, six feet from water. Install ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protected outlets in the bathroom. GFCIs protect people from shock hazard. Unplug small appliances when not in use.
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Kitchen • • •
Unplug counter-top appliances when not in use. Move appliance cords away from heat sources, such as the stove or range. Make sure all kitchen outlets are GFCI protected.
Don't cover an electric blanket when it is in use.
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Stay far away from downed power lines. Assume all downed power lines are energized and dangerous. Consider any object touching the lines energized as well. Install watertight covers on all outlets that protect the outlet even with a cord plugged in. Make sure all outdoor outlets are GFCI protected. Use power tools that are in good condition and do not have cracked or frayed wires. Store power tools indoors to keep them safe from water damage or excessive heat. When working outdoors, use only weather-resistant extension cords marked for outdoor use. Before digging, contact OHIO811 to have utility lines marked. The safest course of action is to leave tree trimming to the professionals, so you and your family can enjoy the safety and beauty of well-kept yard.
Whether you're working from home, learning from home, or just spending more time at home, it is important to make sure your home is electrically safe, secure, and efficient.
Bedrooms •
Keep the electrical panel free from obstructions, and make sure your hands and the floor are dry before touching the panel. Install GFCI protection in outlets located near clothes washers or wash tubs, or all outlets if it's damp. Place dehumidifiers on a stable and level surface, at least three feet from walls and other objects.
Outdoors
Bathrooms •
Make sure electric blankets are in good condition; check for cracks or breaks in electrical cords. Turn off electric blankets and heating pads when not in use.
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