While ensuring the safety of our members and employees is a top priority year-round, the month of May serves as an important reminder. Electric cooperatives across the state and nation join together to recognize National Electrical Safety Month, an annual campaign led by the Electrical Safety Foundation International to raise awareness about the dangers of electricity and how to use it safely in our everyday lives.
Electricity is something most of us depend on without a second thought. It powers our homes, businesses, and the devices we rely on daily. But while it is an essential and dependable resource, it also carries serious—and sometimes deadly—risks when not handled properly. The good news is that many electrical accidents can be prevented with a little awareness and a few simple precautions.
Many common hazards are found right inside the home. Everyday items like power outlets, extension cords, appliances, and power tools can become dangerous if they are damaged or used incorrectly. Taking a few extra moments to unplug devices when they are not in use, inspect cords for wear and tear, and replace anything that appears frayed or broken can significantly reduce the risk of shock or fire. For families with young children, using outlet covers and teaching them early about electrical safety can help prevent injuries before they happen.
As we move closer to summer, it is also important to think about severe weather and its impact on electrical safety. Storms can bring down power lines, cause flooding, and create hazardous conditions both during and after the event. If you encounter a downed power line, always assume it is energized and dangerous. Stay far away, avoid anything in contact with the line, and report it immediately by calling 911 or your electric cooperative. Never drive over downed lines or attempt to move them for any reason.
Power outages during storms often lead people to use portable generators. While generators can be helpful, they must be used with extreme caution. Operating a generator too close to your home or in an enclosed space can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal in just minutes. Generators should always be used outdoors, positioned well away from doors, windows, and vents, with the exhaust directed away from the home. It is also critical to never plug a generator directly into your home’s wiring without a properly installed transfer switch, as this can create dangerous conditions for both your household and utility workers.
At your electric cooperative, safety is more than a priority—it’s a responsibility we take seriously every day. Our crews work hard to provide reliable power, often in challenging conditions, and practicing electrical safety at home helps protect not only your family but also the lineworkers who serve you.
National Electrical Safety Month is a great time to pause and evaluate how we use electricity in our daily lives. By staying aware and making small, intentional choices, we can all play a part in keeping our homes, families, and communities safe.
Cooperatively,
Steve Lewis