PLAY UP OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL SAFETY TO CHILDREN
Children often do not understand the dangers of electricity. When playing outdoors, it is important to make them aware of overhead power lines and electrical equipment, and emphasize that they should never climb or play near them.
Children should be encouraged to follow these rules:
Never climb trees near power lines. Even if the power lines aren't touching the tree, they could touch when more weight is added to the branch.
Fly kites and model airplanes in large open areas like a park or field, safely away from trees and overhead power lines. If a kite gets stuck in a tree that's near power lines, don't climb up to get it. Have an adult contact us for assistance.
Never climb a utility pole or tower.
Never go into an electric substation for any reason - even on a dare. Electric substations contain high-voltage equipment, which can kill you. Never rescue a pet or retrieve a ball or toy that goes inside. Have an adult contact us for assistance.
Don't play on or around pad-mounted electrical equipment.
When designing an outdoor play area for your children, do not install playground equipment or swimming pools underneath or near power lines. Protect all family members from serious shock and injuries by installing and using outdoor outlets with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI). Use portable GFCIs for outdoor outlets that don't have them. Be careful using electrical appliances outdoors, even if plugged into GFCI-equipped outlets.
Water always attracts kids, but water and electricity never mix. Teach older children to exercise caution before plugging in a radio, CD player, or any electrical gadget outdoors, and keep all electrical appliances at least ten feet away from hot tubs, pools, ponds, puddles and wet surfaces.
Spring showers bring more than tempting puddles for kids to splash in, they can also leave electric hazards behind. Flooded areas are never safe spots to wade or play in, and may be in contact with energized electrical equipment or fallen power lines.
Make sure all of your family members know to stay away from downed power lines and wires, and tell children to report any fallen or dangling wires to an adult.
Finally, teach your children at a young age the procedure for calling 911 to obtain help in an emergency situation.
Have fun and stay safe while playing outdoors!
