Outdoor Electrical Safety
- If there is a downed power line nearby, leave the area immediately and notify your cooperative or call 911. If others are around, let them know that they need to stay away.
- Teach children to stay away from power lines and substations and make sure they can recognize “Danger-High Voltage” signs.
- Never use electrical equipment near any wet areas, such as pools or ponds.
- Remember, electricity looks for the shortest, most direct path to ground. A ladder, pole or even a wet kite string touching a power line will give electricity a new, shorter path and if you are holding one of these items, you could become a part of that path.
- “Call Before You Dig.” Dial 811 before starting a digging project, and workers will be sent to your home to mark utility lines in your yard. This service is free, and it has the potential to save your life.