When Ralphie Parker’s “old man” attempts to plug his “major award” — the infamous plastic leg lamp — into an overloaded wall outlet in the classic movie “A Christmas Story,” there first came a “snap of a few sparks” and the “whiff of ozone” before the lamp blazed forth in the living room front window…. Continue reading.
Many move into a new home without understanding the electrical system that makes all the electronics work. Would you know how to trip the main circuit if someone was being shocked in the bathroom? “Understanding how your home’s electrical system functions is important not only to keep it properly maintained, but for your safety if… Continue reading.
Electricity is a major cause of house fires each year. Since outdated electrical systems can’t handle the demands of today’s devices, malfunctions, electrical fires, injury and electrocution may result. We may forget that like our phones, which update with a simple press of a button, homes need an occasional update, too! You might be tempted… Continue reading.
Lightning safety begins when you hear the rumble of the thunder in an impending storm. Growing up, your parents might have told you to count the seconds between the thunder and a strike of lightning to know how far away the storm was. “One one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand…” But, did you… Continue reading.
Born with a natural curiosity, children are always exploring, asking questions and trying new things to understand the world around them. Unfortunately, that curiosity can be dangerous – and even deadly – when it comes to electricity. “There are 400 deaths and 4,400 injuries from electrical hazards each year,” said Tom VanParis, CEO of Indiana… Continue reading.
The sun is shining, and we’re finally seeing May flowers blooming. What better way to transition from spring to summer than by spending time outdoors? Those at your electric cooperative remind you electrical hazards are not only present indoors; they can also occur outside. “It’s easy to forget the dangers we can face outdoors when… Continue reading.
Do you slow down when you see that flashing orange “Men at Work” sign? This year, National Work Zone Awareness Week is April 9-13, and Indiana Electric Cooperatives reminds drivers to be mindful of lineworkers on the job. Utility trucks are equipped with flashing lights and reflective materials. Work zones are marked on the road… Continue reading.
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about about learning the safety precautions to take once it’s gone. After a storm, many think the dangers have left with the high winds, heavy rain and lightning strikes, but sometimes danger can come during the storm recovery period. Keeping your distance from downed power… Continue reading.
With the hustle and bustle of the holidays ending, we’ll do just about anything to make things easier on ourselves. The convenience of electric space heaters are great, but don’t forget about all of the safety precautions you may have overlooked. “Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States,”… Continue reading.
Indiana weather can be unpredictable, especially during the winter months. That’s why you should prepare for dangerous situations before a storm hits. It is especially important to develop a plan for prolonged power outages during these harsh months. Heavy snows, freezing rain and ice storms can all create electrical hazards. “Being safe around electricity is… Continue reading.
Winter is full of holiday festivities, and, unfortunately, home fires. Avoid the hazards that are all too common during this time of year with some helpful holiday and winter electrical safety tips! During these winter holiday months, everyone breaks out their space heaters, electric blankets and lots of holiday decorations. It’s no wonder that more… Continue reading.
During the holidays, everyone gathers in the kitchen to cook favorite recipes, share warm meals and reconnect with each other. Keep your family safe during these joyful times by learning some basic holiday food preparation safety tips before you start cooking. “The United States Fire Administration estimates more than 2,000 residential fires are reported each… Continue reading.
Tree roots and power lines often coexist without problems. But whether you’re dealing with underground or overhead power lines, take these precautions when planting trees. Not only do dangers lurk for the person planting the tree, nearby power lines and trees can be harmed as well. Trees growing too close to electrical lines are the… Continue reading.
