Outdoor Safety Is Not Child’s Play

Warmer weather is coming; on some days it’s already here. And those sunny days beckon the kids to go out and play. That makes it a good time to remind them of electrical hazards they may find as they roam yards and open spaces.

Take time to point out electrical equipment such as overhead power lines and the service lines bringing electricity to your house. These are not insulated and should never be touched. Kids should stay off of trees that could possibly touch any of these lines. And, they should fly their kites far away from power lines and drop the kite string immediately if the kite gets caught on a power line.

If power lines are underground and a big green metal box sits either curbside or along a back fence in the neighborhood, let the kids know that these are not places to jump and play. They contain electrical equipment. Teach them to never touch anything inside of a box if it happens to be open.

For more summer safety tips, visit your local co-op’s website or safeelectricity.org.