It’s that time of year again! The hotdogs and hamburgers are on the grill, the kids are in the pool, and summer is officially in full swing. It’s a great time of year for families to enjoy being outdoors, but it’s always prudent to remember some simple safety tips when the summer months take you outdoors to enjoy the weather. Be aware of the electrical elements around you and the common safety practices to stay safe.
Be Aware of Power Line Danger
Many neighborhoods have power lines running through them, even over backyards and through overgrown trees. Make sure your trees have been trimmed to stay clear of the power lines. If they haven’t, don’t let your kids climb those trees.
Never attempt to touch or pick up a fallen power line, and do not attempt to remove a kite, drone, or RC airplane if it becomes stuck on a power line. Always call your electrical provider and let them know there is a downed line or item stuck onit so that they can have a professional come out and take care of it.
Install and Test Outdoor Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)and Residual Current Device (RCD) Outlets
If you have electrical outlets located on the exterior of your house, make sure they are a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) or RCD (Residual Current Device) type. These types of outlets let you help minimize an overload or electrical short to your home should that circuit become overloaded, or if water comes in contact with the outlet, as these devices shut off the circuit if a current is detected that should not be flowing along a certain path.
While the National Electric Code®requires GFCIs in newer commercial spaces and homes, older homes are able to be retrofitted with these outlets for a relatively cheap cost and priceless peace of mind.
Keep 3 Feet of Space between Electrical Cords and Water
If you will be joining the multitude of people hosting pool parties this summer, make sure all electrical lines and extension cords are stored a safe distance away from the pool. Beyond creating a tripping hazard, these cords can accidently end up in the water, causing harm to the people in the pool as well as your home. Cords should always remain at least 3 feet away from the water.
If you are putting up party lights of any kind, make sure they do not extend over your pool and alwaysmaintain a distance of at least 3 feet between the cords and water.
Denver’s Professional Licensed, Bonded and Ensured Electrical Contractors
Allstar Electrical has been serving Denver and the Front Range for over 16 years with professional electrical contractor services. Whether it’s your home, office or industrial facility needing tending to, we’ve got you covered with our full range of services and professional, uniformed, licensed, bonded and ensured team. Call us today for a consultation at (303) 399-7420