Electricity does so much to make our lives easier, but it can be a potentially deadly force. There are precautions you should take when working or playing outdoors where electricity is present. Overhead power lines should always be considered energized and uninsulated. You should exercise special care to avoid coming in contact with them. This includes keeping ladders, antennas and poles away from power lines. Follow these guidelines on outdoor electrical safety.
Never touch a power line. Touching a power line with your body or any object such as ladders, poles, tree trimmers, or kites can result in serious injury or death. Remember that electricity can move through conductive materials, such as water, metal, wood, aluminum, string and plastics. Stay away for downed power lines and report it the Fairfield Electric Cooperative immediately.
Don't work or play near power lines. When carrying long or tall items, such as ladders, scaffolding, tree saws and pool cleaning equipment, be aware of what is overhead. Before you raise them into the air, make sure they’re clear of any power lines.
Teach children to be safe. Teach children to stay away from electric facilities such as substations, transmission towers, transformers and power lines.
Call before you dig. If you are planning to dig in your yard for any reason, call 811 so that underground utility services can be identified to prevent damage and potential injury to you and others.