ELECTRIC SAFETY AT HOME

Many electrocutions and home fires can be prevented simply by understanding basic electrical safety principles and adhering to safe practices. Electrical safety should be a top priority in your home. Awareness of electrical hazards is the key to reducing the staggering number of electrically-related home fires, injuries and deaths that occur every year.

To play it safe around your home, just remember the rules for using electricity the right way. The following information will help you gain a better understanding of how to use electricity and electrical products safely:

	1. DON'T plug a bunch of stuff into one outlet or extension cord - It could damage the electrical system in your house or even cause a fire. 2. Make sure all electric cords are tucked away, neat and tidy -Pets might chew on electrical cords, and people might trip and fall
	3. DON'T ever climb the fence around an electrical substation - Ask for help from the electric company in case something has fallen inside – they will come and get it out for you.
	4. DON'T yank an electrical cord from the wall - Pulling on a cord can damage the appliance, the plug or the outlet.
	5. Put safety caps on all unused electrical outlets - Covering outlets will also help save energy by stopping cold drafts.
	6. DO look up and look out for power lines before you climb a ladder or a tree - The electricity can go right through the tree branch - and right through you!
	7. Keep electrical stuff far away from water - Most electrical accidents around the house happen when people use electricity near water.