Outdoor Electrical Safety
Electricity makes our lives easier in many ways, yet electricity can be a powerful and potentially deadly force. That's why you should take special care when using electricity or working around it. Below are some important guidelines on outdoor electrical safety.
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Never touch a power line. Touching a power line with any part of your body or any object such as ladders, tree trimmers, poles, ropes or kites can result in serious injury or death. Remember that electricity can move through conductive materials, i.e., water, metal, wood, aluminum, string and plastics. If you see a wire down, keep yourself and others away and contact Edmond Electric immediately at (405) 359-4655.
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Don't work or play near power lines. When carrying long or tall items, such as ladders, scaffolding, tree saws and pool cleaning equipment, hold them parallel to the ground to avoid contact with power and other overhead wires. Before you raise them into the air, make sure they're clear of any power lines.
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Always wear shoes when using outdoor electrical equipment.
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Maintain proper clearances. For your protection, certain critical clearances are required by law, and minimum of 10 feet must be maintained when working below or adjacent to power lines.
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Teach children to be safe. Children should stay away from electric facilities such as substations, transmission towers, transformers and power lines.
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Before digging anywhere, call Okie at least 48 hours before all digging or construction. This service will mark the ground where utility lines are present. This service is free and notification is required by law. Failure to call before you dig may result in criminal or civil penalties.
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Call 811 or (800) 522-654
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Online at www.callokie.com
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Protect outside outlets. Make sure that your outside outlets have a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to protect you from potential shock. Practice safe boating and recreation. For boaters, ensure you have a least 10 feet of clearance between the highest point of your boat and any power lines when hauling, storing, or sailing your boat. Pay particular attention when raising or lowering your mast or spar. Pay attention to low-hanging lines over roadways when towing boats, trailers and RVs. Practice generator safety. Make sure you take proper precautions when using a generator or installing outdoor holiday lighting.
