May is National Electrical Safety Month, and we’re sharing weekly tips to help protect you, your loved ones, and our communities. If you’ve followed our safety stories in the past, these may sound familiar, but a reminder can make all the difference — especially when it comes to staying alert around potential hazards.
Week 4 tip: Protect yourself against electric shock with ground fault circuit interrupter outlets.
When water comes into contact with electricity, you risk being electrocuted. To protect yourself, invest in ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets.
GFCI outlets monitor the electricity flowing in and out of a product, and are often installed in areas where water and electricity could mix, such as kitchens or bathrooms. If the electric current fluctuates, the outlet shuts the power off to prevent shock.
Be sure to test your GFCI outlets once per month. You can do this by plugging in a nightlight and turning it on. Push the “Test” button; the light should go off. Push the “Reset” button to turn it back on.
Week 3 tip: Know your extension cord’s limits.
Extension cords can be a convenient and helpful tool when you need to reach an outlet, but they should not be a permanent solution. If you use an extension cord for too long, it can start to deteriorate and become a safety hazard. Also, know the extension cord’s wattage rating and be sure not to exceed it.
Week 2 tip: Keep hold of your Mylar balloons.
Mylar balloons are great decorations for graduation parties, birthdays, and holiday celebrations, but they can become very dangerous if they contact power lines. Mylar balloons cause thousands of power outages nationwide every year — don’t let them get released into the air.
Week 1 tip: Move over and slow down to keep our crews and first responders safe.
This isn’t just a courtesy, it’s the law! Whether it’s a PEC truck with amber lights, a police vehicle, or a fire truck, remember to move out of the lane closest to the vehicle if possible. If you are unable to safely move over, slow down by at least 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
First responders and our crews already work in dangerous conditions to serve our communities. Your awareness can help keep them safe while on the job.
You can find more safety tips at myPEC.com/safety. Stay safe by staying informed, and help us spread the word so we can all be safer together!
