Electrical Safety

Outdoor Electric Safety

Be aware of the location of power lines - both overhead and underground - when working or playing outside your home.

• If your project includes digging, be sure to check PSE's Call Before You Dig page to learn about buried utilities lines before you start.
• Check for overhead lines before climbing ladders or trees. Keep ladders, kites and poles well away from power lines.
• Never climb transmission towers, power poles or substation fences.
• Phone your utility if a pet is trapped too close to electrical lines. Never attempt to retrieve it yourself.
• Never use electrical power tools outdoors with water underfoot or rain overhead. Any electrical device should be at least ten feet away from a pool or wet surface.
• Use extension cords, fixtures and outdoor lights specifically designed for outdoor use.
• When putting up a TV antenna, CB base station antenna, drain pipe or flag poles, be sure they are twice the length of the object away from any power lines.
• Try not to use an aluminum ladder outside. If you must, keep yourself, your tools and your ladder well away from power lines.
• Make sure backup electrical generators are installed properly.