Safety Tips

Outside Your Home:

• Never touch a downed power line and keep others away too. Notify Tri-County Electric immediately at (800) 522-3315. You should also call your local law enforcement authorities so an officer can guard the line until it is repaired.
• Never touch an overhead line. Keep all ladders, antennas and other objects at least ten feet away.
• Consult a qualified electrician for assistance with your standby generator and notify Tri-County Electric at (800) 522-3315 that you have one installed. View our Generator Safety page.
• Call 811 before you dig.
• Only use weather-resistant extension cords clearly labeled "for outdoor use." Never use a frayed or damaged cord.
• Never use electric tools during storms or soggy conditions.
• Keep an eye on your kids - don't let them climb trees or fly kites near overhead power lines.

Inside Your Home:

• Keep all electrical appliances away from water. Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) in areas like bathrooms, where water and electricity could come into contact.
• Childproof your outlets to keep kids safe.
• Disconnect tools and appliances by pulling on the plug, not the cord.
• Discard any electrical item with a frayed cord.
• Don't overload your outlets or extension cords.
• Don't place cords under rugs or carpet, or under the legs of furniture.
• During an electrical storm, do not use appliances or take a bath or shower.
• Keep batteries and flashlights on hand in case of a power outage.
• Use surge protectors on electronic devices and appliances.
• Keep space heaters at least three feet away from any combustible materials like bedding, rugs and furniture. Turn them off when not in use.

Learn More About Electrical Safety

• Electrical Safety Brochure
• Ways to prepare for a power outage
• Connecting your standby generator safely
• SafeElectricity.org
  Safe Electricity is a multi-media public awareness program designed to provide information to consumers and compliment the safety-education activities of utilities and educators. Safe Electricity provides life-saving information through many venues, including radio and television public services announcements, news releases and articles and its comprehensive web site. On their Web site, you will find free safety materials targeted to youth, educators, contractors and the media. Safe Electricity has received national recognition for the quality and scope of its programs and services.