Electric Safety

EXPOSED POWER LINES CAN POSE THREAT TO LIFE

Here are some general points to remember and share with your family and friends if there is a chance of meeting power lines and unprotected connections:

• If you see a warning sign that says "DANGER - HIGH VOLTAGE" posted on a fence around an electrical power substation, explain to children to STAY AWAY! The high voltage hazard inside the substation fence is real.
• Children should fly kites in open fields away from power lines. Before climbing into a tree for any reason, check first for power lines that may be hidden by the branches.
• TV antennas must never be installed near power lines. When installing or repairing antennas, be very careful to observe where wires may be located.
• Should you happen to be in a car that is in contact with downed electrical wires, remain in the vehicle and wait for help. Don't try to get out until rescue or utility personnel advise you it is safe to do so.
• If you are forced to abandon the car, first scan the ground for wires, then jump clear of the vehicle. Never touch the car and the ground at the same time. Avoid contacting any water standing around the car on the ground, since wires may also be touching the water.
• Immediately report any downed power lines to the electric utility company that serves the area.

TEACH CHILDREN WHERE TO FLY A KITE SAFELY

Benjamin Franklin loved to experiment, but the famous statesman could have been electrocuted with his kite. Children today enjoy playing with kites, but there are safety rules they should learn.

Teach children that kites and model airplanes should be flown a good distance from any power line. If their string gets tangled with an electric line, call your electric utility to remove it. Only utility representatives are authorized, trained, and equipped to remove these tangled toys from the electric lines or equipment.

WATCH FOR HIGH VOLTAGE WIRES NEAR YOUR TV ANTENNA

Many Ohioians are killed or seriously injured every year by careless contact with an exposed power line by trying to install or repair an antenna. Such careless mistakes can happen in a fleeting second, but can cost the handyman his life. TV antennas never should be installed where they could come in contact with high voltage lines. Check the proximity of your antenna to the power lines. Ask for advise or assistance from your electric company if changes are needed.

ELECTRICITY MAY BE BURIED IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Call the Ohio Utilities Protections Agency (OUPS) 48 hours before doing any digging at 1-800-362-2764. Mark one's intended digging area with white spray paint or white flags. All buried utilities in the area will be marked by their respective companies. Buried electric lines are typically marked with red paint, red tape, or red flags.