As your local energy partner, and in honor of May being National Electrical Safety Month, Union Power is encouraging members to take time this month to talk to your family about safe electricity practices. You can start by sharing these simple tips:

Inside:

• Never put anything other than an electrical plug in an outlet. Use outlet covers to protect children.
• Examine electrical cords often for fraying or cracking, and throw away any worn cords.
• Extension cords are for temporary use. They are not intended for use as permanent home wiring.
• Don’t run cords under carpets or rugs.
• Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets should be used in any area where water and electricity could mix—including kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and outdoors—and should be tested monthly.
• Never touch electrical appliances with wet hands or use them near sinks, tubs, toilets, or showers.
• Don’t use extension cords or multi-outlet converters for appliances. All major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall outlet.

Outside:

• Never go near or drive over a power line. If you encounter a downed line, stay far away and notify Union Power at 704-289-3145.
• Keep kites, model airplanes, and metallic balloons away from power lines.
• Watch for overhead lines when using a ladder, working on a roof, or carrying a long tool.
• Call 811 before any digging project.
• If it is necessary to use a portable generator, always operate the generator outdoors in an open area. Use an extension cord to connect the generator directly to the appliance, ensuring the extension cord has three-prongs and is rated for the amount of power used by the appliance. Do not connect generators directly to household wiring unless the work is completed by a licensed electrician. This prevents back feeding, which could electrocute utility workers.