Caution must be exercised when using outdoor electrical appliances, equipment and tools. Mother Nature’s own brand of electricity – lightning – is also a hazard everyone should steer clear of during thunderstorms. The following tips can help those operating outdoor electrical equipment stay safe:
A qualified electrician should do all electrical work.
Only lighting and power tools that have the label of an independent test laboratory should be used.
Electrical tools should always be stored indoors.
Outdoor electrical outlets must be protected with weatherproof covers and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
Electrical equipment should never be operated on a wet surface or in the rain.
One must never enter a flooded basement to turn off electricity or for any other reason. Instead, the local fire department should be contacted.
Electrical tools must be kept away from children.
The area around the electric meter and other electrical equipment needs to be kept clear.
Lighting and extension cords should be checked for damage before using. Any damaged cords ought to be replaced right away.
When using an electric lawn mower, hedge trimmer, weed eater, etc. the operators must keep the cord behind them and away from blades and moving parts.
A professional tree cutting service should be contacted to trim branches that might fall on electric wiring.
Wooden or fiberglass ladders should be used outside, and kept at least 3 meters away from power lines.
A person or object in contact with a downed wire must not be touched. Downed wires should be reported to authorities immediately.
Last but not least, a very important reminder: everyone is strongly advised to call before digging on their property or a jobsite, to have underground utilities located and marked free of charge. The appropriate number to call for each province can be found at http://www.clickbeforeyoudig.com.