Despite the best efforts to promote safety, accidents may still occur. Accidents with electricity usually involve either shocks or fires. Naturally, all homes should be equipped with smoke detectors to provide early fire warnings. Place them on every floor, including bedrooms, living areas and basements. Practice fire escape routes and make sure family members have a plan should a fire break out. Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for electrical fires handy. Common baking soda will work on smaller electrical fires.

To prevent shock, always assume downed or broken wires are live. Stay away from them and notify Tri-County or your electric company immediately. If someone is in contact with a live wire, don’t touch him. Electric shock can stop the heart and breathing as well as cause burns. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first-aid training is available from many local agencies. In all cases, call for medical aid at once.

Electrical Hazards

Your Home's Wiring

Shock Protectors

Appliance Safety

Use Cord Common Sense

Outdoor Fixtures