As the seasons shift and cooler weather arrives, many of us will turn to space heaters, electric blankets, and other appliances to stay warm. Oct. 5–11 is National Fire Prevention Week, making it the perfect time to think about electrical safety. Boone Power is proud to partner with the Lebanon Fire Department to share important reminders that can help keep our members safe.

“Electrical fires are one of those dangers that people don’t always see coming,” said Jason Hendricks, Deputy Chief of Administration with the Lebanon Fire Department. “But they happen more often than many realize. Taking a few simple safety precautions can save lives.”

Some of the most common causes of electrical fires involve wiring, overloaded circuits, and misuse of extension cords. Learn more about the causes of electrical fires in this month’s safety feature here. 

The Lebanon Fire Department encourages you to keep these tips in mind:

• Plug only one heat-producing appliance into a wall outlet at a time. This includes space heaters, coffee makers, toasters, and microwaves.
• Never use an extension cord with a heat-producing appliance. If you need additional outlets, contact a licensed electrician.
• Remember that extension cords are for temporary use only. They should not replace permanent wiring.
• Turn off heat-producing appliances before bedtime. Electrical fire deaths peak between midnight and 8 a.m.

The department also reminds residents to keep smoke alarms in good working order. The National Fire Protection Association offers these guidelines:

• Smoke alarms with 10-year batteries should be replaced entirely when they chirp.
• Smoke alarms with replaceable batteries need a new battery at least once a year — or right away if they chirp.
• Always use the battery type specified by the manufacturer. Using a different battery could prevent the alarm from working properly.

Boone Power’s partnership with the Lebanon Fire Department extends beyond public education. Each year, the cooperative hosts firefighters for electric safety demonstrations. These sessions show first responders what to do when vehicles strike utility poles, and demonstrate how power lines, transformers, and safety equipment work.

“Those trainings are invaluable,” Hendricks said. “They help prepare our firefighters for situations they’ll face on the job, while also giving them confidence that Boone Power has designed the system with safety in mind.”

By working together, Boone Power and the Lebanon Fire Department aim to keep our community safe.

For more information on electrical fire safety, visit usfa.fema.gov or nfpa.org/public-education.