Safety Brief
Updated 7/28

Play it Safe Outdoors

    We all love spending time outdoors, especially at this time of year.  No matter whether you're playing, or working outdoors, we need to be aware of electrical dangers around us.  Here are a few things to keep in mind while enjoying your time outdoors.

• Beware of anything metal around wires. Keep in mind you don't actually have to touch the wire to get into trouble. Electricity can "leap" to a conductor like a ladder if brought close to an energized wire, so always keep yourself and metal objects at least 10 feet away from power lines.
• When using an aluminum ladder, check above you for power lines. Aluminum is an exceptionally good conductor of electricity. If you touch a power line with an aluminum ladder, you could be seriously injured or killed.
• Remember: Tree limbs can conduct electricity as they contain water. Electricity can pass through a branch that is touching a line, shocking the victim sufficient to cause injury, a fall from the tree or death.
• Kids should be warned not climb trees or build tree houses in trees with lines nearby.
• Leave tree trimming to a professional. But, if you are pruning trees with a long-handled pruning instrument, especially a metal one, check above you to avoid touching a power line or any limbs that are growing into power lines.
• Never attempt to move an object (tree limb, kite, model airplane, etc.) from a power line yourself. Never climb the pole.
• Grounded three-pronged extension cords are recommended for outdoor work. Periodically examine extension cords for breaks or damaged insulation. Replace if defective. Ground Fault Interrupters, or GFIs, are a good investment for all outdoor circuits.

Top of Page