Summer
Safety Sense
School is almost out and summer is on everyone’s mind. It’s hard to think of summer without also thinking of fun. Sequachee Valley Electric Cooperative and the Electrical Safety Foundation are here to remind you that whether enjoying outdoor activities, hitting the road on vacation, or relaxing with a good book, take a little time to review summer safety with your family and friends.
Top electrical hazards during the summer are often related to storms. Lightning strikes, power outages and electrical hazards in the aftermath of storms are often the causes of death and injury during summer months. Let’s all keep the following in mind:
Water
+ Electricity = Danger
Water and electricity don’t mix. To reduce electrical hazards, here’s some safety advice for folks who love swimming and boating:
·
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.
· Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries. Portable GFCIs require no tools to install and are available at prices ranging from $12 to $30.
· Electrical devices such as circuit breakers, fuses, GFCIs, receptacles, plugs and switches can malfunction when water and silt get inside. Replace those that have been submerged.
· Do not allow power cord connections to become wet.
· Outdoors, dangers such as power lines in contact with water can pose electrical hazards.
· Indoors, submerged outlets or electrical cords may be energizing the water, a potential lethal trap.
· When using a wet-dry vacuum cleaner or a pressure washer, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid electric shock.