Summer Electrical Safety Tips
The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) warns of dangers that are present when water comes in contact with electricity. To reduce electrical hazards, ESFI offers the following safety advice:
- Summer is the season for swimming and boating. Awareness of electrical hazards around water can prevent deaths and injuries.
- Sailboats often have masts of 30 feet or more, which are dangerous when they come into contact with overhead power lines. Staying at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines can help prevent lethal electrical hazards.
- 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 energize the water, a potential lethal trap. Before flipping a switch or plugging in an appliance, have an electrician check the house wiring and appliance to make sure it is safe to use.
- When using a wet-dry vacuum cleaner or a pressure washer, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid electric shock.
For more information, Summer Safety tips
Electrical Safety Awareness During Summer Storms