Electrical Safety For Children
Children's natural curiosity can lead them into serious electrical accidents. Teach children never to put fingers or objects into an electrical outlet, toaster, or any other appliance, even if it's off. Keep appliances and cords away from children, bathtubs, and sinks. Use plug covers in outlets.
Outdoor Toys
Electricity can travel down the strings of kites or balloons that contact power lines, and can cause shock or fire. Have children use these toys in open areas, away from overhead lines. Keep metallic balloons indoors, as they are highly conductive. Tell children that if a toy gets into power lines or a substation, they should tell an adult to call the power company and should never try to retreive it themselves.
Power Lines & Electric Equipment
Teach children to recognize "Danger-High Voltage" signs and to stay away from power lines, substations, and pad-mounted transformers. Don't let kids climb trees located near power lines.
General Safety Tips
Our employees think about working safely with electricity all the time. We are concerned about your safety too. Please check this list for safe practices:
- Never fly a kite near power lines.
- Before climbing a tree, look up to make sure that the tree and its branches are not near a power line.
- Never attempt to touch a fallen power line with any object. Always assume it's energized.
- If a power line falls on your car and your car is unable to move, stay in the car until help arrives. Stepping from the car to the ground will create a path for electricity - through you! If you must get out of the car, do not step out.....jump well away from the car.
- Be alert when using ladders, antennas and other long objects. Make sure they don't come in contact with overhead power lines.
- Call Ohio Utilities Protection Service 48 hours before digging. Dial 8-1-1 or (800) 362-2764.
- Electrical safety begins with proper wiring. Has your wiring been installed and checked by a qualified electrician?
- Does your home have at least a 100-amp electric service?
- If your home is heated electrically, does it have at least a 200-amp electric service?
- Do all appliances and electrical cords carry approval of the Underwriters' Laboratory (UL) or other authorized laboratory?
- Are all plugs on electrical appliance cords the three-prong type and grounded?
- Do you have Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets in the bathroom, kitchen and where water can come in contact with electricity?
- Check cords for wear, especially at plug and connections. Replace cords that have exposed wire!
- Do you keep cords away from heat and water?
- Do you ever disconnect an appliance by pulling the cord? Always pull the plug.
- Are all convenience outlets grounded?
- Are outdoor outlets weatherproofed GFCI protected?
- Are moisture-resistant appliance cords used outdoors?
- Does every major electrical appliance have its own circuit?
- DO NOT handle or use appliances if you are wet or are standing on a wet surface, like in the bathroom or kitchen!
- Do power tools have heavy duty, grounded cords?
- Are all antennas grounded?
