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Be Safe

**Safety City – Electrical Safety Demos

Children and Electrical Safety

SafeElectricity.org
E-Smart Kids
Electric Universe

You wouldn’t let your children swim during a lightning storm, would you? No, of course not, but children’s natural curiosity can lead them into serious electrical accidents. Here are some tips you can teach your children to help keep them safe:

  • Never put fingers or objects into an electrical outlet, toaster, or any other appliance, even if it’s off.
  • Don’t fly kites near power lines; kite strings that contact power lines can cause shock or fire.
  • Don’t climb trees near power lines and never build tree houses near power lines.
  • “Danger High Voltage” signs mean “Keep Out.”
  • Never go near electrical substations.
  • Don’t play around pad-mounted transformers.
  • Keep electrical appliances away from swimming pools, bathtubs, and sinks.

Digging Safely

If you’re planning any digging projects around your home, be sure to pick up the phone before the shovel. Knowing where utility lines are buried can protect you from physical harm and your entire neighborhood from a disruption in their utilities.

Call West Florida Electric to request the underground power line locator service to identify if there are active utility lines hiding beneath the surface where you plan to dig. Allow 48 hours for the lines to be located. Call (800) 342-7400, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tips for the Home

Here are some tips to use around the home to help prevent electrical accidents.

  • Throw away frayed and damaged cords and extension cords.
  • Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
  • Turn appliances off before unplugging them and pull the plug, not the cord, when unplugging.
  • Don’t touch appliances or switches with wet hands.
  • Cover electrical outlets to stop children from poking things into them.
  • Keep appliances out of the reach of children.
  • Make sure outdoor appliances cannot come into contact with pools or puddles of water.
  • Always look up before moving ladders and other tall items around your yard or home. A ladder or antenna in contact with a power line can cause a serious accident.
  • Never tamper with your electric meter, as it is illegal and you could risk shock, explosion or fire.
  • Never use water to douse an electrical fire, use the appropriate type of fire extinguisher. Never tamper with your electric meter, as it is illegal and you could risk shock, explosion, or fire.