Summer Safety

Summer is HERE to stay, but don’t let the busyness of summer distract you from practicing electrical safety. As you’re probably spending more time outside, take preventative measures to ensure safety for you and your family. Here are a few preventative methods and tools to think about this summer.

Install GCFI’s → When a Ground Circuit Fault Interrupter detects a compromise in the circuit, it will automatically shut down the outlet’s power. In this way, if any moisture comes into contact with an outlet, the power will be cut before any danger arises.

Outdoor Extension Cords → An outdoor-rated extension cord is usually covered in vinyl to protect it from sunshine, water, and abrasion. These qualities make an outdoor-rated extension cord safe to use outside. In no circumstances should you use an indoor extension cord outside.

Inspect Extension Cords → Regularly inspecting your extension cords is a good rule of thumb no matter where you’re using them. When you’re using outdoor extension cords however, inspection goes from being careful to absolutely crucial. Check for cracks and exposed wires. If you find any, carefully dispose of the extension cord.

Avoid Water Touching Electricity → Water conducts electricity. Meaning? Water that has come in contact with electricity has the power to shock! If an electrical tool is touching water, carefully unplug the power. It’s also important to remember this rule when you’re wet, as you could get shocked, too.

Now that you’ve learned about electrical safety, are you interested in learning more about saving energy? Take a look at this blog post, or give us a call at 616-643-8287 to learn more about conserving energy.