Spring is the perfect time to improve your electrical safety. With the warmer weather and traditional cleaning tasks underway, it’s also important to ensure that all of your electrical components are functioning properly too. It’s also a great time to apply good habits around electrical items inside and outside of the home.
While practicing electrical safety is advisable throughout the year, spring introduces some additional risks that you may not have considered.
Here are some springtime safety tips that you can use to avoid dangerous electrical mishaps.
Practice Power Tool Safety
When you get busy with spring projects, it’s easy to forget about some of the power tools you have running. Always turn off and unplug power tools when they aren’t being used. If you have a power tool that hasn’t been used in a long time, double-check the cord and plug to make sure they aren’t damaged or fraying.
Keep Ladders Away from Power Lines
Warmer weather makes spring an ideal time for getting outside work done. Trimming trees and cleaning gutters will require getting on a ladder, so be aware of power lines around your home and make sure you stay a safe distance away. Never place a ladder or work in close proximity to a power line. Doing so may result in serious injury or death. Maintaining a safe distance of at least 10 feet from any overhead power line is a good safety rule.
Avoid Contact with Water
Spring often brings rain, snow melt, and all sorts of damp situations. Since electricity and water aren’t the best of friends, be cautious when using electronics outdoors. Whether it’s a Bluetooth speaker or a power tool, never let an electrical item contact with water. Even wet grass, which is usually an afterthought, can create a hazard when electronics are involved.
Call 811 Before Digging
Sometimes digging projects have to wait for the ground to thaw, which often happens during spring. However, before you dig, call 811 so that underground utility lines can be identified and properly marked. Not only does this guarantee you won’t hit and damage lines, but it also greatly reduces the risk that you will injure yourself. This free service is also required by law. You should always call at least two business days before you start to dig.
Outdoor Recreation Safety
Beautiful spring weather practically demands being outside, but don’t let the nice weather fool you. Depending on where you live, spring weather can change quickly. What started as a warm, sunny day can quickly turn into a dangerous situation when a storm arrives quickly. Enjoy the outdoors, but be vigilant when the weather begins to change. Seek shelter immediately if the weather turns nasty. Know in advance where you need to go for shelter and make sure children, pets, and property are safe and secure.
Follow These Springtime Safety Tips for a Safe Season
Whether you’re doing yard work, maintenance, or just enjoying the nice weather, spring is a great time to be outdoors. And with these springtime safety tips, you’re ready to have a safe and productive spring. Always remember to take extra precautions when working near electrical lines and when using electrical equipment. This approach should apply regardless of the season.
If you have an electrical project or would like to learn more about electrical upgrades that will benefit you, give us a call or request a service online today.
