As the temperatures begin to heat up in the Medford, Oregon, area, it is vital to be mindful of the summer electricity safety hazards you may encounter when swimming during the upcoming months. To help protect you and your family throughout the warmest season of the year, the electricians at Winters Electric in Medford have organized a detailed list of summer electrical safety tips to help you stay secure as you dip your toes in the water throughout the summertime. Employ the following advice to be safe while you enjoy the water this season.
One of the most essential facts to keep in mind this season is that the combination of water and electricity is incredibly dangerous and deadly. The following summer electricity safety tips center around the importance of this rule:
- Make sure you keep all electrical appliances and toys far away from any source of water. This includes not only pools, but sprinklers, sinks, and garden hoses as well.
- Electricity can move through water and cause electrocution at a rapid pace. If you are wet or sitting in water, refrain from using electrical toys or devices until after you have dried off.
- Utilize battery-operated devices and appliances when you are near water instead of cord-connected devices to reduce the risk of electrocution.
- If you own a pool or hot tub, have an electrician examine it annually to ensure the equipment complies with regional regulations and the National Electric Code.
- Make sure all electrical wires and junction boxes are at a minimum of five feet away from any body of water.
- Check to ensure that all outlets have their own weather-resistance outlet cover and make sure all remain closed when not in use.
- Organize a comprehensive emergency plan that contains actions you need to take in the event of an emergency.
- Check that electrical connections to your hot tubs and pools are grounded. In addition, make sure that all major appliances in your home, such as laundry machines, dishwashers, dryers, air conditioners, and refrigerators connect to grounded electrical outlets rather than extension cords.