Electrical Safety

Spring Safety Spotlight

Never fly kites near overhead power lines.  Kites and power lines are a bad combination.  If a kite string becomes dirty or wet, it can be a conductor of electricity and current can travel down the string as if it were a piece of wire.  If a kite string becomes tangled in a power line, do not try to free it.  Call the Westerville Electric Division at (614) 901-6700 to have the string and kite removed.

Source: AMP Public Power Connections Spring 2013 edition.

Electrical Safety Checklist

Here is a checklist you can use to help you make your home safe:

• Electric outlets are not overloaded with lots of plugs.
• Electric cords are in good condition.
• Electric cords do not run under rugs, furniture legs or near hot appliances.
• Electric appliances are used away from water.
• People carry appliances by the handle, not the cord. 
• A multipurpose fire extinguisher is kept in the house.
• Electric appliances that can get hot, such as toasters heaters and light bulbs, are kept away from things that can burn.
• Safety caps are inserted in outlets when small children are around.
• Small appliances are turned off and/or unplugged when people leave home.
• All extension cords, lights and appliances used outdoors are labeled for outdoor use.

Click on the Electrical Safety Foundation International link below for more information about electrical safety.

Electrical Safety Foundation International

What to know when planting near electrical utility boxes!