Electrical rules to share with kids

It’s never too early to teach your kids about dangers of electricity

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Posted on May 24 2018 in Safety

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 Electric Cooperatives. “Education and adult supervision are the main ways to help reduce your child’s risk of an electrical accident.”

With summer break just beginning, children of all ages will spend the next few months entertaining themselves. Whether they are keeping cool inside or soaking up some vitamin D outside, they are bound to run into trouble. Your cooperative, though, wants to be sure they are safe from electrical hazards. Keep your children safe by teaching them the rules of outdoor and indoor electrical safety.

Outdoor Electrical Safety Rules: 

  • Do not climb trees near power lines or climb utility poles, transmission towers
    or fences around electrical substations.
  • Keep electrical cords away from water.
  • Never touch an electrical pole or wire that has fallen to the ground. 
  • Watch out for thunderstorms! If you can hear thunder, you can be struck by lightning.

Indoor Electrical Safety Rules: 

  • Do not overload an extension cord with too many plugs.
  • Teach older kids how to safely plug in and unplug cords.
  • Remind children that water and electricity do not mix.
  • For younger children, install safety caps on outlets.

It is also important for children to know how to avoid electrical dangers, but also how to respond to an electrical injury. The most important rule is to never touch a victim who is still connected to a power source. The same current could travel to their bodies and injure them as well. If they can, either unplug or turn off the switch to the power supply. Inform children to never touch a live wire, even if it does not look dangerous. Lastly, be sure they know how to call 911 in an emergency if they ever need help. 

If you have questions about keeping your family safe from electrical hazards, contact your electric cooperative. Help keep your children safe, wherever they are, by applying a few safety rules to their summer routine.