No one understands the importance of electrical safety more than electric lineworkers. Every day, they literally put their lives on the line to ensure you have power. Lineworkers know than when working with electricity, it is crucial to always follow the rules and never take any safety shortcuts. That’s why during Electrical Safety Month, we pay particularly close attention to the lessons our lineworkers can teach us. Here are some timely tips from the pros on how to commemorate Electrical Safety Month.

Here’s a simple yet important tip: ‘Don’t climb trees near power lines.’ You don’t want to even think about how easy a fun spring and summer activity could turn tragic if a child makes contact with electricity. But, it could happen and, unfortunately, has happened before.”

Spring and summer are when many of us tackle outdoor and home maintenance chores, including cleaning gutters on the roof. My safety advice to folks tackling outdoor chores: Be very careful! Never use water or blower extensions to clean gutters near electric lines. If electric lines are nearby contact a professional to do the job for you.”

Look up and around you when you’re outdoors doing any kind of work. Know where power lines are, especially if you’re moving something like a tall ladder, pool skimmer or pruning pole around. And, if it’s a windy day, be extra careful! It’s easy to lose control of those large objects!”

Remember this simple 10-foot rule: Keep yourself and any equipment you may be using at least 10 feet away from power lines. Even if you do not come in contact with a power line, the electricity can arc to objects and people that are close by.”

Water and electricity don’t mix. When you’re using electricity, don’t be standing on a floor that’s wet, or even grass that is damp.”

Do you love your power tools? To make sure that you’re using them safely, inspect them regularly to make sure there are no frayed cords, broken plugs or cracked or broken housing. If there are, throw those tools out.”