Tips for Safely Enjoying Your Power

Household chores and projects are a great outlet, both inside and outside. Before you begin, plug into these simple rules that can help you work safely around electricity.

Start in your yard:

• Never touch an overhead line. Keep ladders, antennas, pruners and other long objects at least 10' away.
• Equip outdoor electrical outlets with waterproof covers and ground fault curcuit interrupters (GFCIs).
• Use only weather-resistant, heavy-gauge extension cords marked "for outdoor use." Never use frayed or damaged cords.
• Never use corded electrical tools during storms or in wet/damp conditions.
• If you see a downed power line, stay away and keep your family away. Call (816) 471-5275, toll-free (888) 471-5275.
• Never dig near underground utilities. Call your statewide One-Call Hotline for location.

Then go inside:

• Keep electrical appliances and tools away from water.
• Disconnect tools and appliances by pulling the plug, not the cord.
• Avoid overloading outlets.
• Never run electrical cords under rugs or through doorways.
• Look for the Underwriters Laboratory listing on every appliance you buy.

For more electrical safety information, visit our Brochure Center.