Electric Safety
Safety First
Electricity makes many things possible in our lives but it must be respected and not taken for granted. The safety of our members and employees is a top priority for the City of Rupert. If you have any questions or concerns pertaining to safety please call 436-9600.
Summer Safety Tips
Work Safely Around Electricity
- Look up and around – always be aware of the location of power lines.
- Be especially careful when working near power lines attached to your house. Keep equipment and yourself at least 10 feet from lines.
- Never trim trees near power lines. If you see a tree growing too near power lines, call 436-9600 to report it.
- Never climb a utility pole and never attach anything to a utility pole.
- If your project includes digging, like building a deck or planting a tree, call Idaho Dig Line at 811 or 800-342-1585 for underground locates at least two business days before you dig. This prevents the inconvenience of having utilities interrupted and can help you avoid serious injury.
- Electricity and water do not mix! If it’s raining or the ground is wet, avoid using electric yard tools.
- Protect outdoor electrical outlets with weatherproof covers and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). Indoor outlets near water sources should also have GFCIs.
Play Safely Around Electricity
- Stay away from power lines. Always assume they are “live and dangerous”.
- Never climb trees near power lines.
- Never touch outdoor wires with any part of your body or other objects.
- Fly kites and model airplanes in large open areas like a park or a field, safely away from trees and overhead power lines. If a kite gets stuck in a tree near power lines, do not climb up to get it. Call 436-9600 for assistance.
- Never go into an electric substation for any reason. Electric substations contain high-voltage equipment that can kill you. Never rescue a pet that goes inside. If a substation needs to be entered call 436-9600.
Educational Links:
www.safeelectricity.org
www.eia.gov/kids
www.bpa.gov/power/pl/columbia/5%2dlinks.htm
www.digline.com