Electricity is an essential part of our everyday lives, but it can also pose a significant danger. By following some key electrical safety tips, you can minimize any risk to you and your family.

1. Before using a ladder, trimming branches, cleaning gutters, or working on a roof, check for power lines in or near trees.
2. When working near power lines, stay a minimum of 25 feet away.
3. Keep electrical equipment away from water at all times – never use any electric appliance on a wet surface, while wet, or when standing in water.
4. Know what’s below – call 8-1-1 before any digging around your home to find out where underground utility lines are buried.
5. Don’t overload electrical outlets with multiple appliances. Use a power strip with an integrated fuse to plug more than two electrical items into one outlet.
6. Examine electrical cords and replace or dispose of any that are damaged.
7. Keep electric space heaters at least four feet from furniture and drapes.
8. Don’t force a plug into an outlet or remove an electrical plug by pulling on the cord.
9. Never run a generator indoors, including inside a garage – a generator should always be located outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
10. Never go near a fallen power line, as it may be live and extremely dangerous – stay safe and call 1-800-898-8042 to report downed power lines and damage.

Safety is always our top priority. To learn more about how you can help prevent electricity-related accidents, visit delmarva.com/safety.