Electrical safety starts with education 

Equip kids with knowledge to keep them safe

BORN WITH NATURAL CURIOSITY, children are always exploring, asking questions and trying new things to understand the world around them. Unfortunately, that curiosity can be dangerous—and even deadly—when it comes to electricity. 

To help keep children safe from electrical hazards, teach them the rules of outdoor and indoor electrical safety.

Outdoor electrical safety rules

• Do not climb trees near power lines or climb utility poles, transmission towers or fences around electrical substations.
• Keep electrical cords away from water.
• Never touch an electrical pole or wire that has fallen to the ground. 
• Watch out for thunderstorms. If you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning.

Indoor electrical safety rules

• Do not overload an extension cord with too many plugs.
• Teach older kids how to safely plug in and unplug a cord.
• Remind children that water and electricity do not mix.
• For younger children, install safety caps on outlets.

It is important for children to know how to avoid electrical dangers, but also how to respond to an electrical injury. The most important rule is to never touch a victim who is still connected to a power source. The same current could travel to their bodies and injure them.

Tell children to either unplug or turn off the switch to the power supply, if they can. Teach them never to touch a live wire, even if it does not look dangerous. Lastly, be sure they know how to call 911 in an emergency if they ever need help. 

If you have questions about keeping your family safe from electrical hazards, contact your electric cooperative. Help keep your children safe, wherever they are, by applying a few safety rules to their routine.