Well, it’s summer, and in just a few days the biggest holiday of the season arrives: The Fourth of July! As we prepare for backyard BBQs and poolside fun, there are some important things to remember to make sure it’s a safe holiday.

Whether you are hosting or heading over to a neighbor’s or relative’s house to celebrate, we have a few safety tips to share with you so that your friends and family enjoy your time together and avoid accidents:

Summer Holiday Poolside Electrical Safety Tips

Spending time in and around the pool is a big part of summer and celebration during the warmest months of the year. Regardless of whether you are hosting a get-together at your home or someone else’s, make sure the chances for accidents are minimal by following these simple safety steps:

1. Never run electrical cords over or alongside the pool. Water and electricity don’t mix!
2. If you are decorating the backyard, string party lights a minimum of 3 feet away from the pool or any water source.
3. Store and activate fireworks as far away from the pool as possible.
4. Never use a floatation device to support an electrical appliance (fan, etc.).
5. Never cross the pool exit or towel storage area with electrical wires.
6. Always use safety caps on electrical outlets near water.
7. When possible, use GFI outlets to protect yourself and your electrical appliances outdoors.

Electrical Power Line Safety Tips

Power lines run through neighborhoods and can even pass through overgrown trees. They’re often the most dangerous when you don’t even notice they’re there because you either see them all of the time, or they are covered by tree canopies. Stay mindful and remember these safety tips when you’re spending time in the backyard or outdoor neighborhoods:

1. Never let kids (or adults for that matter) climb trees that are near power lines.
2. Make sure your trees are trimmed and out of the way of power lines running through your yard or near your home.
3. Never attempt to touch a downed power line. If there is one in your yard, call the electric company immediately. There can still be current running through the line and an active line is highly dangerous.

Propane and Natural Gas Safety Precautions

It’s almost time to fire up the grill! Before you do, keep in mind these quick safety tips to ensure your cookout is an enjoyable success:

1. Make sure your propane tank is full, always connected and secured properly to your BBQ.
2. Never leave your tank unattended with the valve open, as propane is easily combustible and can leak out of an open valve.
3. Always make sure all natural gas lines are “OFF” until they are ready to be used. Natural gas contains an added “rotten egg” smell for easy detection. If you smell natural gas, DO NOT light your grill or other appliance until the smell is gone.
4. Never place your grill next to the pool or any other water surface.

Conclusion

We want you to have fun, and do it safely this holiday weekend. If you find that you have questions about electrical wiring or items inside or outside your home, give us a call and we can answer your questions over the phone or schedule a time to come out and have a look.

Call us at 303-339-7420 for prompt, professional service.