Safety Tips

  • The Importance of GFCIs In Your Home

    What’s the difference between AFCIs and GFCIs? As previously discussed in this safety article, AFCIs help prevent fire hazards caused by arcing faults in damaged or deteriorated wires and cords. But when it comes to electrical-shock hazards, that’s where GFCIs play an important role.

    According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), GFCIs have cut the number of home electrocutions by half. By detecting ground faults–an unintentional electric path between a source of current and a grounded surface; essentially, current leaking to the ground–a GFCI protects you from severe or fatal electric shocks.

    If you have ever experienced an electric shock, it probably happened because part of your body contacted an electrical current and provided a path for the current to go to ground. If your body provides the path, you could be seriously injured. For example, if a bare wire inside an appliance touches its metal case and that case is then charged with electricity, you would get shocked if you touched the appliance with one hand while another part of your body is touching a grounded metal object, such as a water faucet. If the appliance is plugged into an outlet protected by a GFCI, the power will be shut off before a shock can occur. A GFCI does this by constantly monitoring electricity moving through a circuit. If it detects a difference in the electrical current, the device quickly switches off power. They are typically installed around areas with water hazards such as bathrooms or kitchens and are also appropriate in outdoor spaces near pools, gardens and garages.

    According to the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) and the Electrical Safety Foundation International, a portable GFCI is easily installed with little effort at a low cost ($12-$30). Electricians however, should be consulted to guarantee proper installation. To determine if you already have GFCIs in your home, look at your outlets. The standard U.S. socket with three prong holes is 120-volts. The left vertical slot of an outlet is “neutral” and slightly larger than the right vertical slot, which is “hot.” The bottom circular hole is referred to as “ground.” A GFCI outlet can be identified by its test and reset button in the center.  When the reset button is pressed on, power can freely flow to the outlet. Pressing the test button disconnects or interrupts the current and shuts down the circuit to the outlet. The test button will automatically trigger when the GFCI detects that a decrease in current has shifted the flow of power out of balance.

    Having GFCIs in your home is an important way to keep you and your family safe when it comes to the dangers of electric shock.

  • Real Tree Safety Tips

    Few traditions are as unique to the holidays as adorning our homes with brightly lit Christmas trees. Many people choose to display live trees in their homes, and while this timeless exhibit adds to the magic of the season, it may also increase the risk of holiday fires and injuries. A primary concern with a live Christmas tree is fire danger, often brought on by the combination of electrical malfunctions and a drying tree.

    According to the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA), there are several things to do when looking for a fresh tree. If you’re heading to a retail lot, look for one that is well lit but keeps the trees in a shaded area to prevent them from drying out. Ask the seller questions, such as when they received their trees; are they delivered once at the beginning of the season or in several shipments? If there are several varieties of trees, ask the retailer which performs best in your climate, as some species last longer and remain fresher than The Bare Christmas tree ready to decorateothers in certain environments.

    Once you select a potential tree, know how to do a fresh-check. The NCTA suggests that you run a branch through your enclosed hand – the needles should not come off easily. Bend the outer branches – they should be pliable. If they are brittle and snap easily or the needles come off without effort, the tree is too dry and could be a fire hazard. Other warning signs are excessive needle loss, discolored foliage, musty odor and wrinkled bark. A good rule of thumb is if you are unsure as to whether a tree is fresh, select another, and if all the trees on the lot don’t look fresh, find another retailer.

    When you get your live tree home, make a fresh cut to remove about a half inch disk of wood from the base of the trunk before putting it in the stand. Do not cut it at an angle or in a V-shape which makes the tree less sturdy and reduces the amount of water available to the tree. Taking a few minutes to do this will improve your tree’s water intake, and make it harder for your tree to catch fire. As a general rule, tree stands should provide one quart of water per inch of stem diameter. Check the stand daily to ensure the water level doesn’t go below the base of the tree. An additional safeguard is to place the tree away from sources of heat (fireplaces, space heaters, vents).

    To reduce your risk of electrical malfunctions and danger when it comes to décor, use low heat lights such as LED’s or miniature bulbs and inspect the light sets (new or old) for broken or cracked sockets, frayed or bare wires, or loose connections before use. Be careful where you place electrical cords. Don’t run electrical cords under rugs; walking traffic can weaken the insulation and the wires can overheat, increasing the chances for fire or electrical shock. Purchase lights, electric decorations and extension cords that are UL-listed only. And always turn off the tree lights when leaving the house or going to bed.

    Electrical malfunctions can also ignite artificial trees and you should take the same precautions as you would with a real tree regarding tree placement and decorations.
    By following these safety tips, you can keep your holidays merry and bright with the beauty of a real tree in your home.

  • Know What’s Below: Call Before You Dig

    Spring and summer bring with them many outdoor projects. If your planned projects include digging, like planting a tree, adding a deck or
    bringing i811 Call Before You Dign a backhoe for trench work, always plan ahead so you’ll have a few extra days so the job can be done safely. Underground utilities, such as buried gas, water and electric lines, can be a shovel thrust away from turning a spring project into a disaster.

    To find out whether utility lines are located on your property, simply dial 811 from anywhere in the country a few days prior to digging. Your call will be routed to a local “one call” center. Tell the operator the address of where you’re planning to dig and what type of work you will be doing, and the affected local utilities will be notified.

    In a few days, a locator will arrive to designate the approximate position of any underground lines, pipes and cables with flags or marking paint so you’ll know the location of the infrastructure. Then the safe digging can begin.

    Although many homeowners tackling do-it-yourself digging projects are aware of “Call Before You Dig” services, the majority don’t take advantage of the service. A national survey showed that only 33 percent of homeowners called to have their utility lines marked before starting their digging projects, according to the Common Ground Alliance, a federally mandated group of underground utility and damage prevention industry professionals.

    And while light gardening typically doesn’t call for deep digging, other seemingly simple tasks like planting shrubs or installing a new mailbox post can damage utility lines. A severed line can disrupt service to an entire neighborhood, harm diggers and potentially result in fines and repair costs.

    Never assume the location or depth of underground utility lines. There’s no need: the 811 service is free, prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted and can help you avoid serious injury. For more information about local services, visit www.call811.com.

     

     

  • Protecting Electronics & Preventing Hazards

    Big-ticket electronics, such as televisions, computers and gaming consoles, were at the top of many holiday wish list sand found their way into many of our homes. Purchasing, installing and operating these items safely protects not only the expensive equipment, but also your entire home. The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) offers the following tips.

     

    Safety tips

    • Check that all electrical items are certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Intertek (ETL).
    • Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
    • Send warranty and product registration forms for new items to manufacturers in order to be notified about product recalls. Recall information is also available on the website of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (http://www.cpsc.gov).
    • Never install an exterior television or radio antenna close enough to contact power lines if it falls.
    • Never remove the ground pin (the third prong) to make a three-prong plug fit into a two-prong outlet.
    • All appliances and cords should be kept in good condition. Examine them regularly for damage, and repair or dispose of damaged items.
    • Keep cords out of reach of children and pets.
    • Make sure entertainment centers and computer workstations have enough space around them for ventilation of electronic equipment.
    • Keep liquids, including drinks, away from electrical devices. Spills can result in dangerous shocks or fires.
    • Unplug equipment when not in use to save energy and reduce the risks for shocks or fires. Power strips or surge protectors make a good central turn-off point.
    • Always unplug electrical items by grasping the plug firmly rather than pulling on the cord.
    • If you receive any kind of shock from a large appliance or any other electrical device, stop using it until an electrician has checked it.
    • If an appliance smokes or sparks, or if you feel a tingle or light shock when it’s on, stop using it. Discard and replace it or have it repaired by an authorized service provider.

     

    Surge protector or power strip?

    Although surge protectors and power strips both allow you to plug several devices in one location, it is important for consumers to understand that they are not interchangeable. A true surge protector includes internal components that divert or suppress the extra current from surges, protecting your valuable electronics from electrical spikes, while a power strip simply provides more outlets for a circuit.

  • Electric Power Tools

    Many do-it-yourself undertakings involve the use of electric power tools. Because of their power and the use of electricity, they present certain safety risks that users need to be aware of. Working with power tools requires instruction and training as they can be deadly if not properly used or maintained. Electrical shocks, which can lead to injuries, such as heart failure and burns, are among the major hazards associated with electric-powered tools.

    Listed are some guidelines to help protect you from power tool hazards:

    • Power cords are one of the most dangerous problem areas on electrical tools. Cords should be inspected frequently for fraying and other damage.
    • Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) with every power tool.
    • Wear appropriate personal protective gear, such as safety eyewear, face shields, hard hats, safety shoes and insulated gloves.
    • Never use tools in a damp or wet environment (unless approved for that use) which will increase the risk of a short circuit or electrocution. Additionally, make sure the work area is uncluttered and well lit.
    • Do not use power tools without the proper guards and safety switches.
    • Store in a dry place with cords wound loosely (a cord should never be wrapped around the tool itself) and tools that have malfunctioned should be properly labeled to prevent others from attempting to use them.
    • Electric tools must have a three-wire cord with a ground and be plugged into a grounded receptacle, double insulated or be powered by a low-voltage isolation transformer which is used to convey electrical power coming from a source of alternating current (AC) power to a certain device, where the powered device is being isolated from the power source for safety measures. Double–insulated tools are identified with a square-within-a-square logo or the words “double-insulated” on the tool.
    • Use extreme caution when cutting or drilling into walls where electrical wires or water pipes could be accidentally touched or penetrated.
    • Read the tool owner’s manual prior to use and operate tools within their design limitations.
    • Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.

    Power tools can be very useful and can save you a lot of work when compared to using conventional hand tools. When it comes to purchasing these tools, it is wise to spend a little more and focus on quality rather than price for your safety.

  • CFLs: Don’t Bake All Bulbs

    Oven lights are handy. Curious if a casserole’s ready? Flip the switch; no need to open the oven and release heat to get a baking update. But be careful when replacing this little light and never put a bulb in the oven that’s not built for high heat, such as a compact fluorescent lamp (CFL).

    While CFLs are a great option to reduce energy use in your home when compared to classic incandescent bulbs, they’re not a safe alternative when it comes to extreme temperatures. Why won’t CFLs work? Instead of heating a filament until white-hot to produce light like an incandescent bulb, a fluorescent lamp contains a gas that produces ultraviolet (UV) light when excited by electricity. The UV light and the white coating inside the bulb result in visible light. Since CFLs don’t use heat to create light, they are 75 percent more energy efficient, but this same technology that cuts energy use doesn’t stand a chance in an oven’s 400+ degree heat.

    If you find yourself needing to replace an oven light, look for an appliance light bulb that is designed for extreme temperatures in ovens and refrigerators. Also, keep these other safety tips in mind when it comes to using CFLs around your home:

    1. Don’t dim unless it’s dimmable. Buy a specifically designed CFL for a dimmer switch application
    2. Give them air. CFLs may be used in enclosed fixtures as long as the enclosed fixture is not recessed. Totally enclosed recessed fixtures create temperatures too high for CFLs.
    3. Protect CFLs outside. Look at the package or bulb for temperature restrictions before using a CFL outdoors.
    4. Do the twist. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base. Never forcefully twist the glass tubes of the CFL into a light socket.

    CFLs are a great way to save energy in your home, but just make sure you’re using them correctly. And as always, if you want to recycle your CFLs after their use, you can drop them off in a sealed zip-top bag for recycling at any of our service centers.

  • Having a Disaster Plan

    Where will your family be if a disaster strikes? They could be anywhere – at work, at school or even in the car. How will you find each other? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so now is the time to plan in advance how you contact one another, get back together and what to do in different situations. Below are some important items to remember when preparing your plan:

    • Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family.
    • Locate a safe room or the safest area in your home. In certain circumstances the safest area may not be in your home but within your community.
    • Determine escape routes from your home and know your meeting place.
    • Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, allowing all your family members to have a single point of contact.
    • Make a plan for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
    • Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones or program them in your cell phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
    • Check your insurance coverage especially since flood damage is not always covered by homeowners insurance.
    • Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a disaster supply kit.
    • Use a NOAA weather radio and replace its battery every six months.
    • Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.
    • Assign everyone in your family a list of preparation activities, or allot a substantial amount of lead time if you don’t have anyone to help you.

    Meet with your family to create a disaster plan then practice and maintain it. The best plan in the world won’t do you or your family much good if no one can remember it. Be smart – be prepared – be responsible and most importantly, be safe.

  • Safety with Outdoor Extension Cords

    Whenever the weather gets nice, it’s a ritual to begin or continue yard work and ambitious outdoor projects. With the aid of outdoor extension cords, many people have already been mowing, trimming and tackling outdoor tasks for several weeks. When using these cords, it is extremely important to use them properly and safely to avoid hazards. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 400 people are electrocuted each year using electrical appliances and about 9 percent of electrocutions involve the use of lawn and garden equipment and ladders.

    The most common question regarding outdoor extension cords is: Extension cords are classified for either indoor or outdoor use. What’s the difference between the two?

    Simply but importantly, the insulation, or jacket, of an outdoor-rated extension cord is made of a tougher material, which is designed to withstand temperature changes, moisture, ultraviolet rays and some chemicals. While it’s fine to use an outdoor power cord indoors, never use an indoor-rated extension cord for an outside job— doing so could cause electric shock or create a fire hazard.

    So whether you’re doing routine yard work or a special outdoor project, following these tips can help protect you, your family and home from harm.

    • Use only weather-resistant heavy gauge extension cords marked “for outdoor use.” These extension cords have connectors molded onto them to prevent moisture from seeping in and the outer coatings are designed to withstand being dragged along the ground. In addition, these cords have added safeguards designed to withstand the outdoor environment.
    • Examine cords before each use — damaged cords should be replaced immediately.
    • Even though they’re rated for outdoor use, keep all outdoor extension cords clear of standing water and protected from the elements.
    • Keep your work area clean and free from debris.
    • Store cords inside when not in use. If left outside for long periods, the materials that make up the cord can break down and cause dangers such as sparking, fire or possible shock.
    • Do not hang cords over items such as nails, beams and pipes which can cause stress on the covering.
    • To prevent overheating, do not cover cords with cloth, paper or any other material while plugged in.
    • Extend the cord fully while in use — coiled cords risk the danger of overheating.

    Be mindful to keep outdoor wall receptacle covers closed when not in use because moisture causes hazards when you are using an extension cord outdoors. When moisture enters an electrical circuit, it can short out the circuit and cause an electrical fire or electrocution. Using these precautionary tips for outdoor extension cords can help you stay safe while being productive.

  • Safety Tips for After the Storm

    After a storm comes through, there are steps you should take to keep you and your family safe during a power outage.

    1. If you’re experiencing an outage, call CAEC’s outage hotline at 1-800-619-5460.
    2. Try to only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Due to risk of fire, avoid candles if possible.
    3. Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out, but leave one light switched on so you know when power is restored.
    4. Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer during a power outage.
    5. If it is hot outside, take steps to remain cool. Move to the lowest level of your home, as cool air falls. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty. If the heat is intense and the power may be off for a long time, consider going to a movie theater, shopping mall, or “cooling shelter” that may be opened in your community. Listen to local radio or television for more information.
    6. If you have an electric garage door opener, find out where the manual release lever is located and learn how to operate it. Sometimes garage doors can be heavy, so get help to lift it. If you regularly use the garage as the primary means of entering your home upon return from work, be sure to keep a key to your house with you, in case the garage door will not open.
    7. Do not run a generator inside a home or garage.
    8. Listen to local radio and television for updated information.
    9. NEVER go near a downed power line or electrical equipment. Call the local utility company and the police.
    10. Do not touch anything (including branches, or building material) that is touching a power line.
    11. If you see anyone who has come in contact with a power line, DO NOT touch the person. Any efforts to pull them away could make you the second victim. Call emergency services immediately.
    12. Do not drive around or “sight see” in storm damaged areas. Utility and emergency crews need to be able to come in and out. Also, the area may have downed power lines, gas leaks or other dangerous situations.
  • What to Do if the Lights Go Out

    When severe weather causes power outages, employees of CAEC begin working immediately to restore service. Primary lines serving hundreds of customers are repaired first, and then the secondary lines serving just a few customers are restored.

    When your lights go out, look outside and see if your neighbors are also in the dark. If they’re not, check your circuit breaker or fuse box or to see if you can locate the problem.

    If the outage has affected you and your neighbors, call CAEC at 1-800-619-5460.

    Outages that occur in severe weather, or that last for an extended period of time, can place a heavy burden on the system at the moment power is restored. To prevent an overload on the system and possibly another outage, take these steps:

    • Turn your thermostat down or off.
    • Minimize using hot water during the outage, this will prevent your electric water heater from turning on when power is restored.
    • Make sure your kitchen range is off, both the surface and the oven.
    • Avoid opening the freezer door. A full, freestanding freezer will keep food at freezing temperatures about two days; a half-full freezer about one day. For more information about food safety during and after a power outage, call the USDA Food Safety Hotline at 1-800-535-4555.
    • If you see a downed power line, stay away and call CAEC at once.
    • Leave your porch light on so workers will know when your power has been restored.
    • When the power comes back on gradually return your thermostat to its normal setting.
  • What’s a Watch vs. a Warning?

    During possible severe weather, you may see the words “watch” and “warning” used, but do you know the difference? Here’s a brief breakdown:

    Watch: A watch means the potential exists for the development of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or other severe weather events such as a hurricane in the area under the watch. When a watch is issued, you should continue your normal activities, but keep an eye and an ear out for further updates and possible warnings.

    Warning: A warning on the other hand, means that severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or other severe weather events are occurring or is imminent based on Doppler radar information. You should move indoors to a place of safety and follow your storm safety plan.

    Watches and warnings have no time-limit and should be taken seriously. Keeping a weather radio programmed for your area can help alert you of either event.

  • When to Call a Professional

    The phrase, “call a licensed electrician,” is a common expression when discussing home projects that involve wiring and electricity. This is very important advice to follow because electricity can not only seriously injure you or others, it can also cause damage to your home or create a situation where hazards could occur down the road, such as an electrical fire.

    We always suggest the use of a professional when it comes to many of your home’s electrical projects, especially exposed wiring and other electrical hazards. If you’re experiencing the following signs, they could be symptoms of a serious electrical problem and you should contact a qualified, licensed electrician as soon as possible:

    • Damaged Circuits:  Circuit breakers are integral for managing the safe flow of electricity through your home. These safety measures detect surges in electrical activity and switch off power supplies to protect your appliances. However, circuit breakers can actually deliver harmful shocks to homeowners if they malfunction. If the breakers trip frequently, protect yourself and avoid contact with your circuit breaker. This warning applies for fuse boxes as well.
    • Insufficient Outlets: Many homeowners find that their power strips and circuit breakers are always overloaded. This issue may be solved through rewiring or by adding power outlets. Strategic placement of extra outlets can also help homeowners in rooms where power sources always seem out of reach. However, never attempt to install electrical outlets on your own, instead, leave this job to a trained electrician.

    And remember, many state and local laws require that a permit be obtained prior to the installation of electrical wiring or devices, and that an inspection be performed to ensure that the work was completed safely and it meets applicable code requirements. If you hire an electrician or contractor to perform work at your home, be sure to confirm that he/she has obtained the appropriate permits, and you should request an inspection once the work is complete.

    Safety should always be the foremost concern for anyone who is working on or around electricity. When in doubt, call a professional out.