May is National Electrical Safety Month, and with the weather warming up, it’s time to make safety a priority when working outside near overhead power lines.
Safe Electricity reminds everyone to take note of overhead power lines when working outside:
Look up and around you. Always be aware of the location of power lines, particularly when using long tools like ladders, pool skimmers, and pruning poles. Be especially careful when working near power lines attached to your house. Keep in mind that wind can blow large objects out of your control.
Keep equipment and yourself at least 10 feet from power lines. Even if you do not come in contact with a power line, the electricity can arc to close objects and people.
Be careful when working on or around your roof—installing or cleaning gutters, installing rooftop antennas and satellite dishes, or doing repair work. Never use water or blower extensions to clean gutters near electric lines. Contact a professional maintenance contractor.
Never climb trees near power lines.
Never trim trees near power lines. Leave that to the professionals.
Always follow safety procedures, no matter how boring and mundane they seem.