Electricity provides necessities and luxuries that add to the quality of life. However, carelessness can result in burns, injuries, or death.

Similar to lightning, electricity is always seeking a path to the ground. If any part of your body comes in contact with an energized object like a power line or faulty cord, you become a part of that pathway. Touching a power line with a metal ladder, antenna, or farm equipment are ways you can make contact.

Tri-State Electric Membership Corporation urges you to follow these safety rules:

• Consider all utility lines dangerous. Keep objects such as ladders and antennas away from power lines.
• If power lines are underground, call Tri-State EMC before you dig. We will locate and mark the lines so you can safely proceed.
• Report to Tri-State EMC any potential power line hazards including trees growing into the lines.
• Never touch a person or object that is in contact with a power line.
• Do not run electrical cords through doorways or under carpets. Do not drape cords over pipes or other metal objects.
• Check all power cords frequently. Replace any that are worn or frayed immediately. Do not patch or tape a faulty cord.
• Never fire a gun at a light, power line, insulator. or transformer.
• Be sure tools and equipment are properly grounded. Install a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) in bathrooms, kitchens, and outside outlets.
• Do not touch an electrical switch while your hands are damp. Never handle an electrical cord or equipment while in water.
• Handling electrical equipment improperly can cause a fire. Do not let equipment cords overheat. If they feel extremely warm, discontinue use.
• Use extension cords large enough to carry the amount of current needed to operate the equipment. Use heavy duty extension cords with portable tools and heavy duty equipment.
• Protect your computer and highly sensitive electronic equipment from power surges by installing protection devices. These range from low cost surge suppressers to uninterruptible power supplies.
• Celebrate Christmas safely by following the general safety procedures on the use of electrical cords. Keep paper and tinsel decorations away from lights. Unplug cords when stringing lights and do not leave lights on when unattended.