Safety tips for Warm Weather Outdoor Activities

As your community-owned electric utility, we recommend homeowners plug-in to the following electrical safety tips for warm weather outdoor activities.

  • Inspect power tools and electric lawn mowers before each use for frayed power cords, broken plugs and cracked or broken housings. If the electrical device is damaged, stop using it immediately. Replace it or have it repaired.
  • When using tools or extension cords outside, make sure they are marked "for outdoor use."
  • Never use electrically operated tools in the rain or in wet conditions.
  • Unplug all portable power tools when not in use. Do not leave a power tool unattended even for a brief period of time. A child can turn on the tool and cause serious injury.
  • Metal ladders conduct electricity. Watch out for overhead wires and power lines.

Check for potential hazards throughout your home

Most of us don't think much about electricity unless we are forced to go without it. But just like light bulbs and appliances, the electrical system in your home deserves attention. We urge our residents to look for potential hazards throughout their homes.

Many potential hazards are easily identified and corrected. Make certain lamp and extension cords are not cracked, frayed, covered by rugs or furniture.

  • Check light bulb wattage to insure it is appropriate for the fixture.
  • Electrical appliances should be kept away from damp and hot surfaces and have adequate ventilation.
  • Dim or flickering lights, arcs or sparks, sizzling or buzzing sounds from your electrical system, odors, hot switch plates, loose plugs and damaged insulation, among other things, are signs of potential hazards. A qualified electrician should be contacted.
  • Be safe around electrical equipment.

The following tips can help you stay safe around electrical equipment:

  • Never remove the third prong of a three-pronged plug. Convert two-pronged outlets using an adapter with a ground tab.
  • When working outdoors, use only weather resistant heavy gauge extension cords marked "for outdoor use."
  • Keep outdoor outlets and electrical products covered and dry between uses.
  • If an electrical device falls into a pool or bathtub, unplug it before you reach into the water.
  • Turn off electrical devices if the cord overheats.
  • Never try to repair electrical devices yourself.
  • Be sure amperage ratings for outdoor extension cords are higher than those of the electrical device.
  • Keep cords out of your path or work area. Throw the cord over your shoulder.
  • Put a ground circuit interrupter between the electric power source and the electric device.