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- Call before you dig. Call 1-800-432-4770 two full business days before digging to find out where underground utility lines are located.
- Avoid contact with overhead power lines, transformer boxes in areas with underground utilities and electric utility substation sites or equipment.
- Protect yourself from injury and fire by using ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and grounded outlets.
- Don't overload electrical outlets. If you must use an extension cord temporarily, match the amperage and wattage limits of the cord and appliance, and do not use damaged cords.
- Stay dry. Keep electric appliances, such as hair dryers, away from water. Never operate an appliance when wet.
- Keep household appliances in good working order. Never carry appliances by the cords, and remove cords from outlets by pulling on the plug head. Don't run cords under rugs or furniture; they could become damaged or overheated.
- Use caution when working outdoors. Watch for power lines when using a ladder, pruning trees, carrying long tools or pipes, cleaning out your pool, working on the roof or installing an antenna.
- Play it safe when you're having fun. Keep kites, model airplanes, fishing poles, sailboat masts, hang gliders, parachutes and boats on trailers away from power lines.
- Educate your children about electrical safety. Teach them never to put fingers or objects into outlets or appliances, and use outlet covers wherever necessary. Don't let your children climb trees near power lines. Let them play with kites and balloons in open areas away from power lines. Help them recognize "Danger-High Voltage" signs and identify electric utility equipment. Teach them to use 9-1-1 and to seek help in the event of an electrical emergency.
- Recognize workplace hazards. Keep your tools, work area and storage space clean and dry. Check cords for wear and keep tools switched "off" before plugging or unplugging.
- Never touch a fallen power line or anything or anyone in contact with one. In any electrical emergency, stay calm and call for help.
- Be prepared for power outages during severe storms. Keep flashlights and batteries where they can be found easily. Unplug your appliances during storms to prevent lightning damage, and don't forget lightning can come into your home through cable television and telephone lines as well. When power resumes, turn on only necessary items and do so one appliance at a time to avoid overloading the electric system.
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